Theories of Learning English Language

Theories, Approaches, and Methods of Learning English Language

• Theories and approaches to language learning are diverse
• Various methods exist for teaching English, based on different principles
• Learning can be facilitated using different approaches

Behaviorism

• Founded by B.F. Skinner
• Learning based on imitation
• Learners try to mimic how others pronounce words and act
• Positive and negative reinforcement guide learning
• Children learn words by imitating parents and siblings, like "mama" and "papa"

Cognitivism

• Founded by Canny
• A reaction to behaviorism
• Emphasizes human's innate ability to acquire language
• Learners are active participants in the language learning process
• The goal is to make knowledge meaningful to the learner
• Applying questions to help learners refine their thinking

Constructivism

• Founded by Piaget
• Learning depends on self-evident details as people grow up
• Language and world exposure improves linguistic knowledge
• Interaction with others is the primary way of acquiring language

Social Constructivism

• Founded by Vygotsky
• Learning based on interacting with people who know the language
• Learning occurs through engaging with society

Krashen's Monitor

• Founded by Stephen Krashen
• Language acquisition through natural communication
• Learning by speaking and listening to native speakers (without formal schooling)

Acculturation

• Founded by John Schumann
• Learning languages through adaptation to a new culture
• Immigrants learn the new language by interacting in the new culture

Standards-Based Approach (SBA)

• Addresses what students should know and be able to do
• Defined by three types of standards:
  • Content standards (statement of knowledge and skills)
  • Performance standards (how learners achieve standards)
  • Proficiency standards (learner's performance)
• SBA aims to develop five areas (C5) for language learning

5CS Framework

• Communication: Oral and written forms, interpretation of messages from varied audiences
• Culture: Understanding target and native cultures (values, beliefs, practices)
• Connections: Linking learning to other subject areas (such as history, Arabic)
• Comparison: Recognizing similarities and differences between cultures and languages
• Communities: Extending learning by engaging with communities beyond the classroom (i.e. internet)

Characteristics of Standards-Based Classroom

• Classroom climates characterized by respectful behavior and routines
• Teacher ensures all lesson components (activities, assessments, and homework) contribute toward learning objectives
• Focus on student mastery of the standards

Competency-Based Approach

• Focuses on student competencies
• Learning one skill before progressing to another skill

Communicative Approach

• Learner-centered approach
• Develops fluency and accuracy in communication
• Focus on practical communication skills

Content-Based Approach

• Active learners engaging in real-world tasks
• Using target language actively to participate in learning activities

Eclectic Approach

• Combines various approaches and methodologies
• Adapts to learner needs and lesson objectives

Former Methods of Learning English Language

• Grammar-Translation Method: Focuses on reading and translating texts, not on communication
• Audio-Lingual Method: Repetitive drills and listening to dialogues, without much instructor explanations
• Communicative Language Teaching (CLT): Focuses on meaningful communication and real-world scenarios.
• Total Physical Response (TPR): Students act out instructions from the instructor.

Community Language Learning

• Facilitates natural communication, with focus on real-world English application outside the classroom

The Silent Way

• Learners take the lead in learning, with less teacher input, and more active student participation.

Suggestopedia

• Designed to remove barriers to language learning
• Native language translation used to help learners understand concepts