A selection of the ideas presented at the 1982 TESOL convention is presented. The volume is divided into four sections: (1) Policy and Planning, (2) Challenging Assumptions, (3) Conditions for Learning, and (4) In--or out of--the Classroom. Part I provides five perspectives on varieties of English, the relationship between English and other national languages, and the governmental and institutional action required to implement language policy. Part II is comprised of six papers that challenge basic assumptions held by language teachers and researchers, while providing other assumptions to be challenged in turn. The third part consists of five papers that examine the nature of language learning, learners' characteristics, supportive environment, and differences between first and second language patterns of interaction. The final section contains 10 papers dealing with the organization of the learning experience at the level of program/curriculum planning, classroom management, and materials development. (Author/AMH)