This study synthesizes the methods and findings of published research investigating second language (L2) learners' linguistic development in study-abroad (SA) contexts. Some studies have demonstrated that SA participation is beneficial to learners' L2 development, whereas others have not supported such a relationship. The first phase of this…

A review of the literature concerning second language program evaluation looks at definitions of program evaluation, approaches taken to it, and the purposes that evaluation has fulfilled. Use of program evaluation to educate those working in or with second-language programs is recommended. (MSE)

Spontaneous movements in second language instruction are contrasted with instructional projects designed to address specific issues or problems. Canada's proposed National Core French Study is discussed in this context. (MSE)

An overview of empirical research conducted in Canada's core French language programs addresses eight major areas: (1) program characteristics and outcomes, (2) program supplements, (3) student characteristics, (4) enrollment influences, (5) teacher characteristics, (6) public opinion, (7) program implementation and administration, and (8)…

Examines second-language vocabulary knowledge and acquisition by reviewing research on levels of lexical proficiency and on qualitative differences in the oral and written communication of French immersion students as compared to that of their francophone peers. Argues for improved vocabulary instruction in immersion programs. (MDM)

Reviews available research on the effects of school-sponsored ethnic language programs on students' attitudes toward the ethnic language, their own ethnic group, and themselves. Studies indicate a generally positive effect of programs on attitudes, including attitudes toward speakers of other languages and other ethnic groups. Discusses findings…

Existing empirical research on core French instruction is reviewed, and research directions are proposed in four areas: program design, program objectives and outcomes, curriculum issues, and teacher education. Experimentation with alternative instructional designs for delivery of core French is seen as a high priority. (84 references) (Author/MSE)

Reviews literature from 1968-86 on enrichment strategies for gifted children in the primary grades. A variety of questions concerning primary school gifted children in French immersion classes are discussed and implications for teachers are summarized. (35 references) (Author/MSE)

Represents a comparative analysis of the instructional policies for heritage language programs in Ontario and Quebec. It is concluded that the differences in the programs reflect a distinct difference between the two provinces with relation to interethnic relations. (VWL)

In Canada, education in French as a second language (FSL) offers students the opportunity to learn a second official language. Is such an opportunity appropriate for allophone students who are still in the process of learning English? This literature review provides a fourfold consideration of the issue. Section 1 examines the political response…

Proposed and existing models of research and professional development through which language faculty can participate in the reward structure are surveyed and evaluated for their applicability to the small multilingual, primarily baccalaureate department. All existing models are found to be burdened by political drawbacks, and a new model is…

Discusses teacher shortages in French language instruction areas in Canada, both core and immersion; the rationalization of programs; staffing and financial support among Alberta's tertiary education; language teacher preparation; and continuing professional development. Suggestions are made as to how a smaller university can better fulfill its…

Examines verbal auxiliary selection in the speech of French immersion students. Examines variation in auxiliary selection in the oral discourse to determine to what extent it resembles that of native speakers. (Author/VWL)

Reviews current trends in French language teaching methodology, and demonstrates how psychology and sociology have influenced the trend away from methods based on linguistic theory. (AM)

Reports on a series of recent research projects concerning the principles of additive and subtractive bilingualism in Canadian schools and the probability of minorities and majorities successfully learning a second language based on their overall mastery in their first language. (60 references) (GLR)