Can you recommend a few books or other
resources to help me become a better language learner?
Lonna J. Dickerson, Ph.D.
Of the hundreds of available
resources to help you become a better language learner, here
are two easy-to-read books and one CD-ROM program. The books are
written for those who want to learn a second language but know
little about how to go about the process other than taking a course
and hoping that their needs will be met. In these books you can
find practical guidance for becoming a more self-directed learner
who is increasingly able not only to learn more effectively in
the classroom but also to learn successfully from ordinary native
speakers. While the CD-ROM program is primarily for language learners
who want expert advice throughout their learning process, it also
offers a broad range of practical guidance for language coaches/facilitators.
Rubin, Joan & Irene Thompson (1994). How to Be A More
Successful Language Learner (2nd ed.). Boston: Heinle & Heinle.
A foundational "must read" for every language learner
and language coach/facilitator. Provides a very readable and
relatively short overview of the language learning process including
important issues you need to understand to become an effective
self-directed learner.
Marshall, Terry (1989). The Whole World Guide to Language
Learning. Yarmouth, ME: Intercultural Press.
Written for independent language learners, this book shows
you how to learn at your own pace through involvement with ordinary
native speakers in the local community. It includes guidance
for finding a native-speaker helper (a "mentor") and
using the Daily Learning Cycle also described in Becoming Bilingual
(Larson & Smalley, 1972 and 1984) and LAMP (Brewster &
Brewster, 1976).
LinguaLinks Library Version
CD-ROM from the SIL International. A rich source of ideas and
information on all aspects of language learning. Seven major
sections (bookshelves): Anthropology, Language Learning, Linguistics,
Literacy, Sociolinguistics, Consulting, General Reference. Indispensable
for language coaches/facilitators and also highly useful for
learners who will take the time to ferret out information to
help themselves become more successful self-directed learners.
Updated and expanded yearly. You may also purchase separately
the Language Learning bookshelf on a CD-ROM.
ICCT article: "Planning
for Success in Language Learning"
© Lonna Dickerson, Ph.D.
Director
Institute for Cross-Cultural Training (ICCT)
Wheaton College, Wheaton, IL 60187
|
