The lack of consensus about gender-inclusive language (GIL) in German poses growing challenges for English-speaking German as a foreign language (L2 German) students and instructors. Whereas students often struggle to convey the same gender sensitivity that is generally available in English into their second language (L2), instructors are equally…

This article examines equity concerns in assessing student participation in the foreign language classroom and proposes alternative approaches for more equitable assessment practices. The article presents several approaches for reimagining participation assessment. These approaches aim to create more equitable assessment of student participation…

This paper explores graphic novels that address issues of diversity and migration and enhance multiliteracies learning in the German classroom. By adopting a multiliteracies approach, the paper proposes a transformative learning approach that explores these issues within graphic novels. Examples of learning activities from an intermediate course…

This study investigated the relationship between learner beliefs about peer feedback and development of second language (L2) pronunciation skills after peer feedback on pronunciation had been used in the classroom. Seventy-four first-year learners of German were assigned to a peer feedback provider group, a peer feedback receiver group, and a…

This paper is concerned with the integration of informal language learning into university language modules in a foreign language environment. It begins by exploring the evolving nature of formal and informal language learning. This is followed by analysis of a pedagogic innovation intended to integrate foreign language activities in an informal…

Second language acquisition (SLA) research emphasizes the role of imagination in language learning, with learners often envisioning themselves engaging with native speakers. However, learners' language preferences may differ from those of native-speaker communities. For example, while regional language is used in native-speaker communities to…

Grounded in self-based and community-oriented concepts of motivation research into learning world languages, this study investigated stereotypes about native-speaker and non-native-speaker teachers of German that 110 novice learners of French, German, Russian, and Spanish had encountered. It furthermore analyzed how participants rated the accuracy…

German language classrooms lack authentic materials, especially at the intermediate and beginner levels. Authentic materials are generally substituted for mock materials in the target language, which creates an unrealistic and inauthentic second language (L2) environment. Additionally, authentic materials are oftentimes reserved for advanced L2…

The purpose of this paper is to describe and reflect on the position of what are called second additional languages in the language teaching landscape of South African schools. This landscape is crowded, with different South African languages vying for attention. Amidst efforts to increase the number of learners who offer an African language as…

As language programs are endangered in K-16 contexts due to low enrollments, and for budgetary reasons, it is more important than ever to find enduring ways to help promote the study of languages and to make studying languages enjoyable for everyone. For sustainable language education, we need to focus on and promote the true purpose of…

This systematic review reports on research investigating the impact of multi-word unit (MWU) input on young learners' second language (L2) attainment in instructed settings. Recent findings suggest that L2 learners can generalise from MWU input, abstract patterns and employ such schemata productively via slot-filling, indicating that MWUs are key…

This classroom study investigated the effectiveness of form-focused instruction and peer feedback training to improve grammatical accuracy and thereby maximize learning opportunities during peer interaction. Eighty-seven third-semester learners of German were assigned to a PI group (peer interaction only), an FFI group (peer interaction and…

This research used qualitative netnography to examine the use of Duolingo German discussion boards among users of varying levels of engagement. The sample contained six participants of various levels of engagement. The criteria for selecting participants were based on usage counts in the discussion board community. This study aimed to examine…

Textbooks play an undeniable role in education and training. The selection of textbooks, which are crucial materials for both teachers and learners in the teaching-learning process, requires careful consideration of specific criteria. Textbooks wield an effect on intrinsic motivation factors like interest, desire, and curiosity. They also impact…

Once the pandemic concluded, the Foreign Languages Department of a Chilean state university hired a Canadian company to implement a pre-designed language learning system (PLLS). This platform was to be used by all teachers and students, as it contained various activities to develop all four language skills, including pronunciation practice through…