Confusion about the relative contributions of explicit and implicit learning processes has been rampant in language education. Since the advent of Krashen's "Natural Approach," most modern teachers have tended to favor naturalistic learning or acquisition using immersion techniques, extensive reading, native speaker teachers, and study abroad programs. On the other hand, some educators have also reported impressive results by using explicit methods such as synthetic phonics, translation, systematic vocabulary instruction and analytical approaches to grammar instruction. This presentation will summarize recent work in applied linguistics and psycholinguistics in order to help language teachers see the vital role that both forms of learning have in language development. Special attention will be paid to vocabulary and grammar development in primary and secondary schools.

About the Presenter

Christopher Morrow has been Assistant Professor of English Language Education at UAE University in Al Ain since 2008. He has 15 years of experience living in the Middle East, and 18 years of experience teaching English to adults in many contexts. He is currently conducting a study on Bilingual Methods of Fourth Grade Science Instruction, which is funded by the National Research Foundation.

For more information, please contact fdc@aus.edu.