ERIC Number: EJ1069325
Record Type: Journal
Publication Date: 2006
Pages: 18
Abstractor: As Provided
ISBN: N/A
ISSN: ISSN-1041-679X
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Available Date: N/A
Communication Strategies in the Foreign Language Classroom
Houston, Tony
Applied Language Learning, v16 n2 p65-82 2006
The focus of the present study is to examine the communication strategies used by learners and teachers in the foreign language classroom. The data is from introductory Spanish classrooms at the university level. The author analyzed the data for instances of communications strategies according to taxonomy developed for ESL studies. Important differences emerged between ESL and FL strategy use, many of which are attributable to the fact that ESL learners do not share a common first language (L1) as FL learners most often do. Communication strategies, by definition, occur only when there is meaning to be conveyed. Meaningful communication, therefore, is a prerequisite for their use. Avoidance and borrowing strategies circumvent target language use, and therefore, do not demonstrate strategic competence. The data from the present study illustrate the importance of conducting classes exclusively in the target language (L2) and creating opportunities for meaningful communication for developing strategic competence.
Descriptors: Communication Strategies, Second Language Learning, Second Language Instruction, Classroom Techniques, Introductory Courses, Spanish, Taxonomy, Language of Instruction, Incidence, Classroom Observation Techniques, Discourse Analysis, Discussion (Teaching Technique), Linguistic Borrowing, Translation, Help Seeking, College Students
Defense Language Institute, Foreign Language Center. Academic Journals, 1759 Lewis Road Suite 142, Presidio of Monterey, Monterey, CA 93944-5006. Tel: 831-242-5638; Fax: 831-242-5850; e-mail: aj@pom-emh1.army.mil; Website: http://www.dliflc.edu/#homepage-tab|3
Publication Type: Journal Articles; Reports - Research
Education Level: Higher Education; Postsecondary Education
Audience: N/A
Language: English
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Author Affiliations: N/A