Share Topic 13: History and evolution of the methodological trends
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Who was H. H. Stern, and what did he advocate regarding the study of language teaching history?
H. H. Stern was a scholar of language pedagogy who advocated studying the history of language teaching to gain perspective on current practices and to guide
What changes did Noam Chomsky introduce in the 1950s that transformed language teaching?
Chomsky challenged structuralist and behaviourist views of language, introducing ideas about innate linguistic structures that led to more flexible, eclectic, l
What characteristics define the humanistic branch that emerged after Chomsky’s ideas?
Humanistic approaches emphasised the teacher’s charisma, learners’ emotional well-being, personal expression, and the creation of a supportive, student-centred
How did Piaget and Vygotsky influence the development of language teaching theories in the 1960s and 70s?
Their work in cognitive science and educational psychology promoted the idea of learning as an active, developmental, and socially mediated process, supporting
What is the Grammar-Translation Method, and why did it dominate until the 1960s?
It is a method focused on grammar rules, vocabulary lists, and translation between the mother tongue and target language. It dominated because it aligned with t
How were vocabulary and grammar taught within the Grammar-Translation Method?
Vocabulary was taught through isolated word lists, and grammar through explicit, detailed explanations, with little emphasis on oral communication.
What characteristics differentiate the Direct Method from the Grammar-Translation Method?
The Direct Method uses only the target language, teaches grammar inductively, focuses on speaking and listening, and promotes everyday vocabulary and oral inter
How were oral skills developed in the Direct Method?
Through structured question-and-answer exchanges, intensive oral practice, and constant interaction conducted exclusively in the target language.
Why is the Audio-Lingual Method considered a behaviourist approach?
Because it is based on stimulus-response learning, repetitive drilling, habit formation, and reinforcement to shape correct language behaviour.
How did drills work in the Audio-Lingual Method, and what type of reinforcement was used?
Students repeated model sentences provided by the teacher in fixed patterns. Correct responses received positive reinforcement, while errors received negative f
What characteristics distinguish the Silent Way in terms of error treatment and learner independence?
Errors are seen as natural, the teacher speaks minimally, and learners discover rules through problem-solving, fostering autonomy and self-evaluation.
How is a Suggestopedia lesson structured, and what role do music and atmosphere play?
Lessons include introduction, concert sessions (active and passive), elaboration, and production. Music and a relaxed atmosphere lower anxiety and facilitate ac
Who developed Total Physical Response, and what are its key principles?
James Asher developed TPR. Its principles include learning through listening before speaking, physical responses to commands, stress-free learning, and parallel
Why is TPR considered suitable for mixed-ability or special needs classes?
Because it is aptitude-free, highly engaging, kinesthetic, and reduces stress, making it accessible and enjoyable for learners with different needs.
What is the Eclectic Approach, and what main criticism did Stern make about it?
It is an approach that combines techniques from various methods according to teaching contexts. Stern criticised it for lacking clear principles to guide
What characteristics define Communicative Language Teaching, and why did it emerge as a reaction to the Audio-Lingual Method?
CLT emphasises interaction, real-world communication, authentic contexts, and developing communicative competence. It emerged because audio-lingual drills did n
