Designing Effective Language Learning Materials for Less Commonly Taught Languages: A Research-Based Guide

Designing Effective Language Learning Materials for Less Commonly Taught Languages is a guide for language instructors or anyone with an interest in developing language learning materials, using the ADDIE model of instructional design and providing examples from many different languages, reflection questions, and concrete strategies and tips. It will be an invaluable reference for novice and experienced instructors, as well as directors of language programs.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 216 pages
Publication date: 01 August 2023
Publisher: Georgetown University Press

Designing Effective Language Learning Materials for Less Commonly Taught Languages is a comprehensive guide for language instructors and anyone interested in developing language learning materials. Written by expert instructional designers Özçelik and Kent, the book follows the ADDIE model of instructional design and provides examples, reflection questions, and concrete strategies and tips for developing materials for world language learning in general and LCTL learning in particular. The book is designed to be accessible to novice and experienced instructors alike, as well as directors of language programs.

The book begins by discussing the importance of language learning materials and the challenges faced by teachers of LCTLs. It then outlines the ADDIE model of instructional design and explains how it can be used to develop effective language learning materials. The authors provide examples from many different languages, including Arabic, Chinese, French, German, Italian, Japanese, Korean, Polish, Portuguese, Russian, Spanish, and Swedish, to illustrate the different stages of the design process.

One of the key features of the book is the reflection questions that are provided at the end of each chapter. These questions encourage readers to think critically about the design process and to consider the implications of their choices for language learning. The authors also provide concrete strategies and tips for developing materials, such as using authentic materials, incorporating cultural elements, and using technology to enhance learning.

In addition to the examples and reflection questions, the book also includes a chapter on assessment and evaluation. The authors discuss the importance of assessment in language learning and provide strategies for developing effective assessment tools. They also discuss the challenges of evaluating LCTL learning and provide strategies for overcoming these challenges.

One of the strengths of the book is its accessibility. The authors write in a clear and concise style, and they use examples and illustrations to help readers understand the concepts. The book is also well-organized, and the chapters are easy to follow.

However, the book does have some limitations. One of the main limitations is that it does not cover all of the different languages that are taught in the world. While the authors provide examples from many different languages, there are still many languages that are not covered. This can be a significant limitation for teachers of LCTLs who are looking for materials that are specific to their language.

Another limitation of the book is that it does not provide a comprehensive overview of the different stages of the design process. While the authors provide examples and reflection questions for each stage, they do not provide a detailed explanation of each stage. This can be a challenge for novice instructors who are just starting to develop language learning materials.

Despite these limitations, Designing Effective Language Learning Materials for Less Commonly Taught Languages is a valuable resource for language instructors and anyone interested in developing language learning materials. The book provides examples, reflection questions, and concrete strategies and tips for developing materials for world language learning in general and LCTL learning in particular. The book is also well-organized and easy to follow, and it is accessible to novice and experienced instructors alike.

In conclusion, Designing Effective Language Learning Materials for Less Commonly Taught Languages is a comprehensive guide for language instructors and anyone interested in developing language learning materials. Written by expert instructional designers Özçelik and Kent, the book follows the ADDIE model of instructional design and provides examples, reflection questions, and concrete strategies and tips for developing materials for world language learning in general and LCTL learning in particular. While the book does have some limitations, it is a valuable resource for language instructors and anyone interested in developing language learning materials.

Dimension: 229 x 152 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781647123567