ELTWeekly Vol. 3 Issue#98 | September 19 | ISSN 0975-3036

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English Language Teaching and learning methodology and didactic approaches have been in an almost constant state of flux since the advent of the Grammar – Translation method documented by German-American anthropologist Franz Boas and the Danish linguist Otto Jespersen during the early 20th century. Each of the English language teaching and learning methodology and didactic approaches of past decades has contributed to the state of the art that now exists. Here are a few key contributors to ELT.

Past Trends in ELT

Approximately every decade a new approach or methodology comes into vogue. Audio-lingual method, TPR, Neuro-linguistic Programming (NLP), Direct method, the Natural approach and the Communicative approach have all had their heydays. As elements of Computer-Aided Language Learning (CALL) began to grow, the very need for human teachers came briefly into question. Suddenly, everyone wanted to get “plugged in” like the hero in the movie “Matrix” and learn everything instantly. From Piaget to Pimsleur, ever widening facets of language and learning have been ladled upon our world. Many theorists, linguists, language researchers, educational psychologists and a sea of teachers have contributed to our knowledge and understanding of the language teaching and learning processes. A few of the many major theories, events and trends which shaped ELT during past decades include: (more…)