Methodology10

The field of language education is changing at an ever-increasing rate. Traditional notions of education are giving way to newer, more innovative ways of thinking about how we learn, teach and acquire knowledge. This research report has been prepared to help educational leaders and teachers understand current trends in language education. This includes, but is not limited to: English as a Second or Other Language (ESL / ESOL) Second and Other Languages in general (SL) Literacy and language arts This work is by no means exhaustive. It is, rather, a meta-analysis of the trends that can be identified based on current research. Its intention is to stimulate discussion, provoke thought and generate reflective responses. It is worth stating that one assumption underpinning this research is that students, and their needs, hopes and aspirations must be kept at the heart of language learning and education. Readers are encouraged to share this report with colleagues, use it as prereading material for professional development sessions and staff meetings. As educational leadership guru, Michael Fullan, points out, “Leaders learning from each other raises the bar for all.” Since much learning takes place through conversations (Siegrist, 2000), school leaders and teachers are urged use this report as a “think piece” to inspire dialogue with other educators and those with a keen interest in the future of language learning.