A discussion of multilingualism in the European context looks at various topics, including the origins of multilingualism, value judgments about foreign languages and multilingualism, current trends, language contact and mixture, human potential for multilingualism, simultaneous and consecutive language acquisition, individual needs for different…

Examined the influence of input and interactional modifications on second-language acquisition, assigning 41 learners of Japanese to 1 of 3 experimental groups: (1) unmodified input with no interaction; (2) premodified input with no interaction; and (3) unmodified input with the chance for negotiated input. Results indicated that comprehension was…

Discusses the development and implementation of an instructional unit that applies selected whole language strategies to teach reading and writing in the beginning stages of literacy in French. The unit shows how an authentic folktale can be used for integrating topics from the elementary curriculum to form a second-language curriculum for an…

This article addresses training of hearing-impaired children who have received cochlear implants from a "hearing as a second language" point of view. It compares cochlear implants to hearing aids. A project involving 7 children, ages 5 to 12, is detailed, noting efforts to provide a rich auditory environment and encouraging both manual and oral…

Describes the North Dade Center for Modern Languages (CML), a public elementary magnet school that focuses on international studies and provides students with the opportunity to become bilingual, biliterate, and multicultural. Training and costs for telecommunications are discussed, computer networks are described, and the use of video equipment…

The English-for-Science-and-Technology (EST) versus English-for-General-Purposes (EGP) dilemma is reviewed and a Hong Kong study is reported. Results of a study of EST and EGP students suggest that a balance between the two approaches would be more appropriate and useful for future career purposes. (eight references) (Author/LB)

Examines the role of higher education as the European Community moves toward economic, monetary, and political union. Reviews several programs designed to bring more uniformity and equality to educational opportunities in all member nations. Concludes that higher education has assumed a leadership role in bringing about political and economic…

This study of the college experiences of 1,724 academically talented (upper 2%) high school seniors in Wisconsin did not support suggestions of a "brain drain" out of Wisconsin. The study also found that 82% of males and 72% of females majored in math-science areas and 60% felt ill prepared in foreign languages. (DB)

Two major initiatives have influenced language teaching programs in the United States and Canada. The U.S. model is based on preestablished descriptions of language proficiency for different levels, whereas the Canadian model adopts a multidimensional approach emphasizing content more than outcomes and highlighting culture. (SLD)

Research measured grade 5-7 children (n=73) for intelligence; reading comprehension and both static and working memory in the first (L1) and second language (L2); and linguistic knowledge in L1. Results support the notion that increased speed of basic processing in L2 facilitates higher-level processes involved in linguistic and oral communication…

A study used factor analysis to categorize and describe learning strategies in 1,200 university students. Results are reported from the perspectives of information processing theory and social psychology, and specific implications for classroom practice are discussed. (44 references) (MSE)

Data from 27 subjects--children acquiring Swedish as their first language (L1), adult immigrants acquiring Swedish as their second language (L2), and adult Swedish controls--were used to investigate narrative structure in child L1 and adults L2. Narratives were elicited through a picture story task. (30 references) (Author/JP)

A field-tested instruction and assessment model is described that fosters development of second-language skills by integrating writing with listening, speaking, reading, and problem solving. The model draws upon elements of process-oriented instruction, whole language learning, cooperative learning, cognitive mapping, and reading and writing…

Discusses whether the proficiency approach to teaching Arabic, which is now advocated, is really functional enough to suit true needs of students, and whether the debate concerning proficiency is becoming so polarized as to make impossible real discussion of the issues. Trends and changes that have occurred in the Arabic language over the decades…

Draws on a Los Angeles research project with Hispanic immigrant women with limited English to address the ambivalence with which many women approach the task of becoming literate in English. Gender differences and the relationship of literacy to sexuality, violence, and the public/private split between male/female worlds are considered. (22…