This volume represents a unique addition to the growing body of empirical literature on materials development, adopting a reverse approach to the topic. Rather than applying ‘theory to practice’, practitioners and researchers from 11 countries reappraise applied linguistics theories through practice. The book also provides evidence for the diversity of materials development around the globe at different levels for different specialities and for different purposes. Each chapter surveys the relevant literature (such as task-based learning and language and culture), describes a specific research project, reports the results of the project, and discusses the implications of these results for the development of materials both in the local context and in general. After each section there are editorial comments highlighting the issues emerging from the research, and there is a conclusion which connects the findings of the various chapters and makes suggestions both for future research and for the principled development of materials for L2 learners. The book will be suitable for teachers, materials developers, academics and students in post-graduate courses in applied linguistics, in TEFL/TESOL and in the teaching of other languages as an L2.

The Complete Guide to the Theory and Practice of Materials Development for Language Learning provides undergraduate and graduate-level students in applied linguistics and TESOL, researchers, materials developers, and teachers with everything they need to know about the latest theory and practice of language learning materials development for all media. The past two decades have seen historic change in the field of language learning materials development. The four main drivers of that change include a shift in emphasis from materials for language teaching to language learning; evidenced-based development; the huge increase in digital delivery technologies; and the wedding of materials developed for the learning of English with those for other second or foreign languages. Timely, authoritative, and global in scope, this text represents the ideal resource for all those studying and working in the field of language learning.

Applies applied linguistic theories to the development of materials for language learning to add new depth to the field.

Comprehensively revised and updated to take account of the impact of technology on the field of materials development

SLA Research and Materials Development for Language Learning is the only book available to focus on the interaction between second language acquisition theory and materials development for language learning. It consists of contributions written by experts in SLA, experts in materials development, researchers who have expertise in both fields, and introductions and conclusions by the editor. The book is organized into four major sections – position statements; materials driven by SLA theory; evaluations of materials in relation to SLA theory; and proposals for action – that offer a diverse range of perspectives while maintaining a cohesive and comprehensive overview on the subject. This book is ideal for post-graduate courses in applied linguistics and second language acquisition and for researchers interested in the relationship between SLA and materials development.

This book offers an in-depth explanation of Task-Based Language Teaching (TBLT) and the methods necessary to implement it in the language classroom successfully. Combines a survey of theory and research in instructed second language acquisition (ISLA) with insights from language teaching and the philosophy of education Details best practice for TBLT programs, including discussion of learner needs and means analysis; syllabus design; materials writing; choice of methodological principles and pedagogic procedures; criterion-referenced, task-based performance assessment; and program evaluation Written by an esteemed scholar of second language acquisition with over 30 years of research and classroom experience Considers diffusion of innovation in education and the potential impact of TBLT on foreign and second language learning

This book connects SLA theory and practice in ways that are relevant and accessible to students, researchers and practitioners.