This report summarizes the proceedings of a 1996 workshop on modern language teaching, sponsored by the Council of Europe. It first outlines the workshop's aims to examine relevant recent research in Europe, suggest policy concerning language teaching and language teacher training, and encourage cooperation among researchers and their institutions. Opening speeches are summarized, commissioned papers are cited, national and individual reports are listed, and the procedure for group work is noted. Three working groups discussed these issues: early foreign language instruction; bilingual education; factors affecting language learning and teaching; native language use in second language instruction; the role of grammar instruction; cognitive style; the relationship between assessment procedures and language teaching methodology; innovative programs; conditions supporting language teaching; the learner as individual and active participant; research priorities and directions; the purposes and contribution of research; outcomes measurement; and teaching skills. Conclusions are drawn in each of these areas. A list of participants and the report of each working group are appended. (MSE)