1. Theoretical Framework of ELT Methodology
Edward Anthony's Hierarchy (1963) & Richards & Rodgers' Model
Language teaching methodology is organized into three hierarchical levels:
- Approach: The set of theoretical assumptions regarding the nature of language and language learning (e.g., Behaviorism, Structuralism, Constructivism).
- Method: An overall plan for the orderly presentation of language material based upon a selected approach (e.g., Audio-Lingual Method, Direct Method).
- Technique: Specific classroom activities, exercises, or devices used to accomplish an immediate instructional goal (e.g., repetition drill, role-play).
- Richards & Rodgers (1982/2001) expanded this framework into: Approach $\rightarrow$ Design $\rightarrow$ Procedure.
2. Comparison of Classical & Modern ELT Methods
| Method / Approach | Core Theory & Focus | Role of L1 (Mother Tongue) | Key Classroom Techniques |
|---|---|---|---|
| Grammar-Translation (GTM) | Faculty Psychology; Focus on literary reading, writing, and deductive grammar rules. | Dominant medium of instruction and translation exercises. | Word-for-word translation, grammar drills, memorizing paradigms. |
| Direct Method | Natural language acquisition; Focus on oral interaction without translation. | Strictly prohibited; L1 is never used. | |
| Audio-Lingual Method (ALM) | Structural Linguistics + Behaviorism (Habit formation through Stimulus-Response-Reinforcement). | Discouraged to prevent L1 interference habits. | Pattern drills, repetition, dialogue memorization, language lab drills. |
| Communicative Language Teaching (CLT) | Functional Linguistics (Hymes' Communicative Competence); Focus on meaning and fluency. | Judicious use permitted when helpful for comprehension. | Information-gap activities, role-play, jigsaw tasks, authentic materials. |
| Task-Based Language Teaching (TBLT) | Constructivism/Interaction Hypothesis; Focus on completing meaningful real-world tasks. | Used as a resource during task execution if needed. | Pre-task, Task cycle (Task, Planning, Report), Language focus. |
3. Alternative, Humanistic & Modern Approaches
Alternative Approaches & Modern Paradigms
- Total Physical Response (TPR - Asher): Based on trace theory and motor activity; learners respond to imperative commands with physical actions.
- The Silent Way (Gattegno): Structural/Constructivist; Teacher remains silent to encourage learner autonomy, using Cuisenaire rods and color charts.
- Suggestopedia (Lozanov): Desuggestology; Uses relaxing music, comfortable environments, and soft suggestion to lower affective filters.
- Community Language Learning (CLL - Curran): Humanistic Counseling model; Learners are "clients," teacher is a "counselor" facilitating L1 to L2 translation.
- Eclectic Approach: Combining techniques from diverse methods based on learner needs, context, and instructional objectives.
Set 0 - Study Summary
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Pedagogy