Contemporary Task-Based Language Teaching in Asia

Description

Over the last decade, task-based approaches to language learning and teaching (TBLT) have become a major focus of research in Asia in order to create curricula with authentic and meaningful engagement with language learning. Exploring the pedagogic and cultural challenges of top-down approaches to curriculum development in Asia, this book looks at the drivers, stakeholders and obstacles across the region. While some countries have adapted TBLT to deal with the local constraints, others have found it hard to apply and many are still in the process of investigating its implementation in their specific contexts. Contemporary Task-Based Language Teaching in Asia is important to all involved in language development, from curriculum reform to materials development and assists from programme evaluation to the setting of assessment standards. With case studies from 11 Asian countries, including China, Hong Kong, Japan, Korea and Singapore, chapters cover all aspects of language education, from primary to tertiary, private and public education, as well as innovations at local, regional and national levels. Providing examples from a wide range of perspectives and methodologies, Contemporary Task-Based Language Teaching in Asia is an important contribution to TBLT research.

Michael Thomas is Senior Lecturer in Language Learning Technologies at the School of Language, Literature and International Studies, University of Central Lancashire, UK. Hayo Reinders is Professor of Education and Head of Department at Unitec Institute of Technology, New Zealand, and Dean of the Graduate School at Anaheim University, USA.

The contributions in this book provide us with a window into the diverse ways in which TBLT is conceptualised and practised across the Asia region. It speaks to important debates about localised forms of language teaching, compelling us to revise further our understandings of TBLT. -- Cynthia J. White, Professor of Applied Linguistics, Massey University, New Zealand