There are many theories on learning TEFL methodology. What we can
conclude is that when we learn something, some sort of change has occurred
within us. Also, we know that learning occurs through life and although it
often takes place in a social context, it is a highly individualized
process; we all have different learning styles. Theories on language
learning and teaching evolve from the fields of psychology and
linguistics.
One of the most recognized theories on
learning called Behaviorism is based partly on the conditioned-reflex
experiments by Ivan Pavlov, a Russian psychologist. Part of the theory in
practice consists of providing a stimulus to cause a given response in a
repetitive manner. American B.F. Skinner used these experiments to help
create a therapy of behavior modification called conditioning. The
audio-lingual language learning approach came about as a result of this
learning theory; it involved a lot of listen/repeat exercises,
transformation drills, and positive reinforcement.
Another relevant learning theory is known as Developmental
Psychology, partially credited to Jean Piaget, who determined that
learning takes place in four very predictable, sequential, innately
determined stages. He made groundbreaking strides in early childhood
development studies, and his experiments have been implemented with people
of all ages. Some of his theories carry over into the realm of language
learning and acquisition. He believed that language acquisition develops
mainly from a combination or developmental readiness stages, social
interaction, and an individual's unique interpretation process.
Piaget's theories led to the beginning of the
Cognitive Learning Theories which considered behaviorism way too
simplistic in explaining human learning. These theories establish that
human beings learn through experiences - a life-long series of trial and
error. Interpretation of experiences can lead to understanding or insight.
That is, a human being goes through progressive cognitive experiences
acquiring knowledge along the way with which to diagnose and solve
problems. This process of figuring things out is more than just responding
to a stimulus. These principles led to less mechanistic and more
humanistic approaches in language learning.
Whether one agrees with previous theories for learning TEFL
methodology or not, the important implication in a course of English as a
Foreign Language (E.F.L.) is that students learn -and acquire- a given
language by means of eclectic (combination) approaches. Also, they learn
and acquire language without even being aware of the existence of learning
principles embedded in different learning theories.
As we learn relevant elements of the theories
for learning TEFL methodology and methodology necessary to become a
language teacher, each one of us will come to the realization that the
combination of theoretical preparation and teaching experience is the key
element that will produce a good English language teacher. The teacher
will choose and work with whatever materials, techniques and steps that
work well for the learner, regardless of the theory of learning.
In other words, as teachers may apply the different theories of
learning, they need to keep awareness that these theories are subjective
by their own nature. It is impossible
+ نوشته شده در Sun 18 Sep 2011ساعت 1:20 AM توسط Neda & Hadi
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Learning a new language is a growing demand that favours many people. We as English teachers have some experiences to share and also welcome any new experience that paves and fosters our English teaching and learning process.Be with us
