Discusses how English-as-a-Foreign-Language instruction in China is carried out through the grammar translation method. Suggests that this method is insufficient and that language education reform is needed that focuses on teacher training, testing reform, methodology, curriculum design, and instructional materials.(Author/VWL)

Reports results of an investigation into how educational computer games can benefit resource-advantaged (RA) and resource-deprived (RD) learners in English second-language teaching at Grade 6 in the primary school in South Africa. (Author/VWL)

Discusses the need for preparing overseas students for technology courses in Australian Universities and TAFE institutions, and the request of one school for a program design. The short bridging program designed in response to the request is described, including objectives, skills acquired, course content, teachers, and classes. The success of the…

University English-as-a-Foreign-Language students in Hong Kong who participated in popular literature class that emphasized reading for content and enjoyment made superior gains on measures of vocabulary and reading rate compared to students enrolled in a traditional academic skills class. Eighty-eight percent of the literature students felt that…

Describes several sources of errors made by students of Italian and some of the problem-solving behaviors in drill-and-practice exercises on direct and indirect object pronouns and the present perfect tense. The article identifies an unexpected source of error and a problem-solving behavior not found in the traditional learning environment and…

Describes a methodology for teacher training seminars designed to reconsider and define the validity of the design of computer-assisted language learning exercises that are developed by teachers and aimed at solving specific problems experienced by their students. A three-stage system of evaluation to collect empirical data on the method's…

A response to a paper on Translation Quality Assessment and the training of translators looks at parallel developments in second/foreign language learning/teaching, particularly in error analysis, error evaluation, and language authenticity. Argues criteria used to assess quality of translations in a professional context, for which functionalism…

The effects and potential of a hypermedia user's participation in fiction and film creation are discussed, focusing on how the technology can assist an individual in departing from conventional forms of reading and writing. Contemporary trends in hypermedia fiction are examined, and its use of creativity and intelligence are discussed. (MSE)

Describes two World-Wide-Web-based products designed to make the Web more interactive and accessible to less technically inclined language professionals for course development. The eWeb is a set of functions that support large-group and individual synchronous/asynchronous communication and material development. HomePage Maker allows interlinking…

A growing trend in bilingual education is to provide instruction in standard ("mainstream") English for children who are native speakers of an English dialect, such as black English. Debate over the practice focuses on effectiveness and the potential drain on bilingual education funding. Although not criticizing or devaluing the nonstandard…

Describes the construction and field-testing results of intermediate-level tests for Canada' National Core French Assessment. Teachers found the instruments flexible to use and helpful for evaluating desired learning outcomes. Students found them beneficial for focusing and organizing learning activities. Both teachers and students found them…

Examined the effect of cooperative learning on Lebanese elementary students' acquisition of English-as-a-Second-Language rules and mechanics. Pretest and posttest comparison of experimental and control classes did not significantly favor cooperative learning as compared to individualistic instruction, though low achieving experimental class…

Discusses major issues pending in the Second Session of the 104th Congress, noting the impact on language education and focusing on educational reform agendas, recissions, the budget process, appropriations, and English as the official U.S. government language. Individuals in related professional organizations are urged to take steps to influence…

Appalled by his junior-high students' low morale and underachievement, a spiritually grounded African-American teacher realized that self-worth and achievement must grow together. He attacked problem attitudes affectively by building students' self-esteem and cognitively by building their linguistic skills. He raised performance expectations and…

A study of 16 language-teacher trainees found distinct differences between perceived and actual language proficiency. During the foreign-language-teaching methodology course, candidates developed greater realism about their own abilities and need for further language development. The investigation illustrates how motivations change over time for…