This response to Azar (this volume) intends to discuss from an academic's perspective the main points raised in her paper (i.e., grammar-based instruction and its relation to focus on form and error correction) and, to encourage a more concept-based approach to grammar instruction (CBT). A CBT approach to language development argues that the…

Correction and repair as components of an instructional practice that facilitates learning have figured prominently in research on classroom-based second and foreign language learning. Recent studies incorporating a conversation analytic (CA) perspective on second language acquisition (SLA) have also focused on repair and correction. From a CA…

In a series of studies children show increasing mastery of irregular plural forms (such as "mice") simply by producing erroneous over-regularized versions of them (such as "mouses"). We explain this phenomenon in terms of successive approximation in imitation: Children over-regularize early in acquisition because the representations of frequent,…

The present study examines Japanese language learners' perception of corrective feedback (CF) in pair work in relation to their noticing and understanding of their partners' CF and the factors that influence it. This study focuses on three learners, who worked together in pair work. The data collection methods consist of classroom observation,…

Argues against one facet of writing across the curriculum (WAC) "doctrine"--the apparent reluctance to correct students' mechanical errors. Asks WAC proponents to reflect on the vital consideration that one must master the craft before being capable of taking writing to the level at which it approaches or becomes art. (RS)

Introduces this special issue of the journal, which focuses on an important aspect of learner language--linguistic errors. Each of the nine articles are highlighted. (Author/VWL)

Rating errors in personnel evaluation are universal but may be minimized if administrators are aware of them. Research identifies seven types of error: unwarranted strictness, unwarranted leniency, central tendency, halo effect, recency, contrast, and attribution. Countermeasures include developing clear term definitions, using multiple raters,…

Compares the performance of novice computer users and users with significant proofreading experience in proofreading from screen and paper. Results showed that the users with previous experience did better in the screen mode, but no difference between the groups was evident in the paper mode. (Contains 22 references.) (JLB)

Discussion of tutorial interactions in intelligent tutoring systems focuses on an empirical study of university students that identified five considerations human tutors take into account when they plan tutorial interventions to correct student bugs, or errors, in computer programming. Tutorial goals and strategies are described, and future…

Studied development of procedural knowledge in 14 adults, aged 18 to 35 years, engaged in a novel task using a toy tractor-trailer rig. Results revealed three phases of development in subjects' knowledge of steering procedures and the rig's movement patterns, and their use of feedback information. Subjects also manifested different levels of…

Discusses the inaccuracies and distortions found within the Portland Baseline Essays, one of the most widespread Afrocentric teacher resource materials in use. Specific distortions examined are that ancient Egypt was a Black nation and that the achievements of ancient Greece had African origins. (GLR)

Pedagogical, linguistic theoretical, and psychological perspectives on corrective feedback in the field of second-language learning/teaching are discussed, and an attempt is made to integrate these different perspectives. (39 references) (JL)

Analysis of over 750 timed writings of postsecondary keyboarding students found speeds ranging from 39-49 gross words per minute. They left uncorrected one-half to three-quarters of an error per minute. Accuracy and speed standards representing realistic conditions using electronic equipment should now be developed. (SK)

Analyzed the types and magnitude of linguistic adaptation occurring during spoken and multimodal human-computer error resolution. Researchers collected samples of users' spoken and written input immediately before and after recognition errors and at different spiral depths. Results indicated that human language changes in at least three different…

Discusses two intriguing ways of explaining error in student writing--the work of Michel Foucault and the work of Roland Barthes. Describes in-class activities and essay assignments that use these perspectives to help students to reach improved understanding of error in writing. (SR)