Methodology9

Global Trends in Language Learning in the 21st Century

Executive Summary
This report is intended to stimulate discussion, provoke thought and generate reflective responses among its readers. Today’s language classroom is vastly different from that of the mid- to late 20th century. The report offers a metaanalysis of recent research which provided the means to identify current and emerging trends in the field. Informed by this research, some identified trends that are shaping the 21st century language classroom are: What’s out Vague, hollow promises that can t be proven. Saying that learning languages is easy. Authoritative teacher attitudes. Complaining about cutbacks and lack of funding. Language labs. What’s in Clear, provable demonstrations of learning. Frameworks, benchmarks and other asset-based approaches to assessment. Individualized, customizable, learner-centred approaches. Proving the value of language learning through stories and speech. Using technology for language learning. Linking language learning to leadership skills. Showing funders the impact their investment has on our students, our communities and our world. In short, the focus in language education in the twenty-first century is no longer on grammar, memorization and learning from rote, but rather using language and cultural knowledge as a means to communicate and connect to others around the globe.