Motivational variables associated with second language acquisition are discussed. (Author/PMP)

Because of the lack of standardized questionnaires for ascertaining pupil attitudes toward foreign language teaching in the Federal Republic, hints are given for questioning pupils informally. Along with the presentation of different methods, the possible areas of interrogation are discussed, with examples. (Text is in German.) (IFS/WGA)

Discusses the characteristics of three types of Italian students (called "newly arrived,""nostalgic," and "uprooted") and their motivation. (RM)

A brief discussion of a comparatively large-scale enquiry into attitudes of British students toward the language laboratory. Generally they felt it improved their speech production but had minimal effect on their writing skills. Some of the questions used in the survey are included. (AMH)

Discusses the use of audiovisual aids for the teaching of French in Japan. (Text is in French.) (CLK)

The importance of student attitudes to the target language in second language learning is discussed, and several studies are briefly described relating to language attitudes. (RM)

To increase enrollments in Chinese courses, it should be explained that Chinese is relatively easy to learn. The following should be pointed out: (1) there is no conjugation of verbs, (2) there are no suffixes and derivations, (3) the syntax is simpler, (4) the characters are no more difficult than English spelling. (RM)

Behavioral objectives are discussed in relation to second language learning. They are broken down into cognitive and affective objectives, and difficulties in setting such objectives are discussed. (RM)

Conversations with secondary pupils reveal their reasons for not electing foreign languages: lack of knowledge concerning the amount of work involved, fear of difficulty, and underrating the value of a second or third foreign language. Students need to know that the authoritles regard foreign languages as important. (IFS/WGA)

A total of 2232 business and trade school students were given a questionnaire. Most expressed the conviction that a knowledge of English is advantageous, even though they did not currently have a chance to use it. They felt that English teaching should be improved and more intensive. (Text is in German.) (IFS/WGA)

This interview with Jurgen Olbert, who is prominent in French instruction in Germany, covers topics such as official educational policy with regard to language, and student attitudes and motivation towards learning French. (Text is in French.) (CLK)

To reverse trends toward reductions in the number of foreign language teaching positions, it is necessary to change the negative image associated with foreign languages and to try to attract more students. A four-point selling program is suggested. (Author/RM)

This historical overview of German studies in Japan, dating from the birth of modern Japan in the 1870's to the present time, includes commentary on the nature and scope of existing language programs. The importance of German idealism--reflected in the philosophy of Kant, Hegel, Schopenhauer, Nietzsche, and Marx--on Japanese culture is noted.…