Literature Review on Learning Dissertation Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2250 words

Literature Review on Learning - Dissertation Example It has been estimated that around 1 billion people around the world use English everyday (Crystal, 1996). These same individuals would be speaking or writing the language in a wide variety of settings such as the business world or the academe. Such a scenario reinforces the fact that teaching English can be a very daunting task. Prospective teachers must not only deal with the sheer complexity of the language itself but also due to its global nature, the differences in each pupil’s capabilities and learning preferences that are becoming broader. Over the years, various scholars of different nationalities have attempted to formulate their own methods to improve instruction in a native language or to introduce a second language. A careful study and comparison of their works especially the researches on improving English instruction, may aid in the formulation of a successful teaching program.James Asher (1966) was known for his studies which became known as the Total Physical Response experiments. This proceeded with students listening to commands being given in a specific target language, where the whole class including the instructor, would immediately respond by performing the appropriate physical action. When these commands become familiar, the teacher would remain seated and only the students will continue responding to the given commands. Sometimes, a few unfamiliar utterances may also be given. Verbal responses by the students would only be initiated when the students feel they are ready. Many of the grammatical featur es in a language can be introduced through this method with almost any grammatical constituent being able to get taught.