BÉREŠOVÁ, Jana: Learner-centred Approaches and Their Implications for ELT

Abstract: The presentation focuses on learner-centred approaches that significantly influence current language education. This centring on learners shifts the static models of communicative competence towards a dynamic vision of language education. Concepts such as an action-oriented approach, mediation, etc. will be introduced, emphasising their implications for ELT. The action-oriented approach is based on the social context, the language-seen-as-communication concept and the concept of a distinction between communicative activities and competence.  Learners seen as social agents help construct and convey meaning and create bridges between members within the same community or different communities. The concept of learning languages for communication is broadened by the concept of learning other subjects through the languages. Task-based learning enables learners to mobilise and extend their competences and strategies. In the learning context, the selection of tasks results from a needs analysis and this analysis of what needs to be taught is fully context-dependent. Realistic tasks challenge language learners to decide what knowledge and know-how will be required to complete the tasks and thus learners become responsible for their learning. The teacher’s role of facilitating learning processes supports language learners to become more autonomous.    

Key words: learner-centred, action-oriented, mediation learning through languages