How Languages are Learned 4e (Oxford Handbooks for Language Teachers) 4th Edition

Good study on languages for a resource

Great reference book for future linguists!

I bought this updated edition after losing the older edition, which I really liked. I'm just over half way through the new edition. I bought it because I'm a retired psychologist who volunteers as a tutor for Spanish speakers learning English. I like having the sense that I understand some of the theory and empirical work behind what I'm trying to do with people. The book is aimed at teachers who want some background in the research and theory behind second language learning but aren't likely to be doing original research themselves. I think it succeeds well in giving some sense of what may be going on in students as they struggle to achieve competence in a new language. It certainly is not a "how to" book, but it should give some ideas about how to structure lessons in new ways, as well as why students struggle with certain aspects of language at different stages, and why they sometimes seem to "backslide." It should be accessible to teachers who want a deeper understanding of the current state of thinking and research about language learning, with emphasis on second languages.

I had to buy this book for a grad school course. It is fairly easy to read and I enjoyed learning how languages are learned. As a mom, the first couple chapters were especially meaningful.

This is an excellent introduction to the field of SLA, it is relatively short for such a broad field but little space is wasted. The book introduces topics such as the differences between L1 and L2 learning, the effects of individual differences on language learning (including age, personality, motivation, intelligence and identity), second language acquisition theories (including behaviorist, cognitive and social perspectives as well as the usual input vs output debates), and research on the differences between natural and classroom based learning environments as well as the usefulness of grammar instruction. The authors finish the book by looking at what research has to say about certain widely held language learning beliefs such as 'the younger the better' and so on.I found this book both interesting and full of insights from research that can be applied practically as a language learner and teacher. Highly recommended.

This is one my favorite coursebooks in SLA. The book is helpful for those who begin to feel interested in SLA or for teachers who intend to teach a course in language learning. It's very comprehensive and easy to understand. Different opinions from studies on a same topic are offered. Most importantly, it offers fair comments on different theories. This 4th edition also offers good online resources for teachers to conduct discussions on relative topics.

Wow! This book is packed with important, in-depth, and applicable information about how people learn languages. If you are involved in teaching languages or simply have an interest in the subject, I highly recommend this book. I have only recently begun tutoring adult ESL (English as a Second Language) learners, and have been able to apply what I have learned to the tutoring sessions. Highly Recommended!

Bought this for a class and it was interesting. It shipped fast which is super convenient for students. Highly recommend buying from this vendor instead of overpriced school bookstores. They also left a cute note in the packaging! Thank you!