Resources for Teachers
Research on Language Learning Strategies
CARLA's work on language learning strategies began in 1993 with a research
project. The research study focused on the impact of strategies-based instruction
on the skill of speaking in a foreign language. The study examined:
- How explicit strategies-based foreign language instruction affects
students' speaking proficiency;
- Which strategies students report using, how frequently and how effectively
they appear to use them;
- Ways in which foreign language instructors can be trained to provide
strategies-based instruction in their own classrooms.
The research component of this project resulted in the publication of
two CARLA working papers:
Second Language Learning and Use Strategies: Clarifying
the Issues
By Andrew D. Cohen
CARLA Working Paper Series #3 • November
1996 • 26 pp.
This paper considers five problematic issues that have arisen in dealing
with language learning strategy terminology: the distinction between the
term strategy and other terms, the issue of whether learning strategies
need to be conscious in order to be referred to as strategies, criteria
for classifying language learning and use strategies, a broadening of
the concept of strategic competence, and the linking of learning strategies.
>> Now available online: DOWNLOAD
(PDF)
The Impact of Strategies-Based Instruction on Speaking a
Foreign Language
By Andrew D. Cohen, Susan J. Weaver, and Tao-Yuan Li
CARLA Working Paper Series #4 • November
1996 • 51 pp.
This research report outlines the methodology and results of a study
done at the University of Minnesota on the benefits of providing second
language learners with formal training in the application of strategies
across skills, with an emphasis on speaking.
>> Now available online: DOWNLOAD (PDF)
From Research to Practice:
Resources on Language Learning Strategies for Teachers
Based on the research conducted 1993-6, Dr. Cohen and Susan Weaver created
a resource guide for teachers on Strategies-Based Instruction and a companion
video, and began teaching a summer institute using these materials in 1996.
In 2006, the original Strategies-Based Instruction: A Teacher-Training
Manual was updated and was reprinted under a revised title.
Styles-and Strategies-Based Instruction: A Teachers' Guide
by Andrew D. Cohen and Susan J. Weaver
CARLA Working Paper Series · 2006 · 193 pp. · $22.50
+ shipping
Styles- and strategies-based instruction helps students become more aware
of their learning style preferences and gives them a set of strategies
to maximize their language learning ability. This guide helps
teachers to identify the individual needs of their students and incorporate
opportunities
for students to practice a wide range of strategies for both language
learning and language use.
Each chapter in this guide begins with background
material on
topics related to styles- and strategies-based instruction and
provides a bridge from theory to practice by including fun,
hands-on activities for teachers to use in their own classrooms. This guide
is a complete
revision
of Strategies-Based Instruction: A Teacher-Training Manual (1997).
While it is now more explicitly targeted at the classroom teacher,
it also includes
important information for professionals engaged in research
and teacher development.
>> Download order
form (PDF) or order
online.
Examples of Strategies-Based Instruction: A Teacher-Training
Video
By Susan J. Weaver and Andrew D. Cohen
CARLA Working Paper Series #8 • October 1997
This teacher-training video illustrates how strategies-based
instruction has been applied at the University of Minnesota.
The videotape contains seven different examples of strategies-based activities,
taught
by four university-level language instructors. It was originally
created as a companion piece to the Strategies-Based Instruction: A
Teacher-Training Manual (1997) which was revised and retitled Styles-and Strategies-Based
Instruction: A Teachers' Guide (2006).
The video is now available
free of charge on the CARLA website: http://www.carla.umn.edu/strategies/video/strategies.html
Technical Requirements: your browser needs a Flash plugin to view
these videos. If you do not have the appropriate plugin, you will
be notified and given a link for where to download it.
Additional Resources
Bibliography on strategy resources
This bibliography of strategy resources is designed for language learners,
teachers, and researchers.
Strategy Instruction
for Japanese Students
A set of instructional modules which focus on strategy instruction for
intermediate/advanced students of Japanese.
Maximizing Study Abroad:
Strategies for Language and Culture Learning and Use
The exciting new series of Maximizing Study Abroad guidebooks helps students,
program professionals, and language instructors make the most of study
abroad opportunities through strategies for language and culture learning
and use. Research is currently being conducted to determine the effectiveness
of these targeted support materials on study abroad outcomes.
Publications and Presentations
The CARLA bibliography has more information on presentations and publications
done by faculty, students, and staff involved with this project.
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