This paper offers a current overview and a commentary on the current state and future directions of research in second language learning. It begins by outlining the ways perceptions of the world influence research and teaching. It then explores the contexts in which one individual has explored learning in second languages. Then an opinion is provided of what is problematic in current research and pedagogy. This leads to a discussion of different ways of conducting research about the learning of second languages. Finally, overall opinions about language learning and issues related to the training of teachers are revealed. (Contains 40 references.) (KFT)