In celebration of the work of Claire Kramsch, this article affirms her promotion of the literary text "to enrich and enliven the classroom, making the act of reading reflective and self-reflective, and creating a common culture of interpretation and debate within each classroom." (Author/VWL)

This article discusses an alternative method of teaching literature in a foreign language class using a humanistic approach. (CFM)

A review of the literacy crisis in U. S. education and of attempts to resolve it. Recommends three concepts that are important for language study: (1) language learning is hard work; (2) language is genuine knowledge; and (3) every language reflects the cultural outlook of the society that created it. (AMH)

Describes methods used in teaching an introduction to French literature to help students connect literature with their own knowledge so that they see it as a link to interpreting their world and themselves. Suggests teaching literature heightens students' awareness of the power of language, which makes them better users not only of French but also…

Assesses the ambiguous relationship between linguistics and foreign language teaching, noting that budget cuts in foreign language departments usually mean loss of linguistics and literature, and bemoaning the loss of language teaching in higher education based on formal elements of language (grammar, syntax, morphology) in favor of a…

Examines the elements of a successful intensive language program, including areas such as staffing, scheduling, and recruitment of students. (AM)

Proposes the use of authentic texts as the basis for course work from the very beginning of foreign language study. Argues that by practicing cultural analysis, students are better prepared for advanced work than students who have been in a strictly language-oriented class. (Author/VWL)

Describes an online approach through using a MOO, a computer program that allows students to share text-based virtual reality. The goal of the program was to build an environment that both enabled practice in the target language and sustained reflection on the processes of cultural production and reception. (Author/VWL)

Focuses on second language learning research conducted by Valerian Postovsky and by Ellen Bialystok, with particular emphasis on Postovsky's contributions to understanding of how best to initiate second language learning and Bialystok's contributions to knowledge of effective teaching strategies and syllabi. (CB)

Provides an example of how literary theory and standards-based classroom practice can promote active reading experiences with the text as well as interactions with other members of the class. (Author/VWL)

This article emphasizes the value of immersion programs and describes some immersion programs in the United States and Canada. (CFM)

Provides an extensive resource list on foreign language Learning in relation to at-risk students and students with foreign language learning problems. (Author/VWL)

Gives an overview of the aspects of learning disabilities in regard to teaching approaches and course substitutions for language requirements that foreign language department chairs should attend to including the following: definitions of learning disabilities, diagnosis of learning disabilities, teaching methodology for the struggling student,…

Discusses the focus of foreign-language graduate programs on preparing students for their careers. The article argues that the spread of teaching-methods courses and the interest in the utility of education has transformed these programs into hybrids that lack intellectual discipline. The article concludes graduate programs in foreign languages…

A case is made for the importance of studying literature as part of the second language instructional program. Literary criticism introduces linguistics, anthropology, metaphysics, psychoanalysis, and other areas and theories and ties them into into the study of language and literature. (CB)