The object of inquiry for language scientists is the language viewed as a mental construct. Explicit information about language rules and rules practice does not have a positive effect on language as mental representation. Language teachers often work in the dark, with little understanding of the object of their efforts and often lacking of a clear understanding of key constructs such as ‘communication’. Curriculum and language teaching materials must be genuinely informed by what we know about language and language acquisition.

Our research group is currently involved in delivering innovative language teacher training programs (evidence and principle-based) and producing a number of publications for the benefit of language teachers and teaching (see links below).

Key Terms for Language Teachers: A Pocket Guide

Communicative and Tasks in Second Language Teaching

Focus on Form in Second Language Teaching