Table – Major Language Teaching Methods

Teaching Method Description Main Advocates

Focuses on learning grammar rules and translating
between the target language and the native language. Main Advocates: Johann
Grammar Learners often memorize vocabulary lists and practice Seidenstücker, Francois
Translation Method translating sentences. Gouin, Marcel Thomas
Emphasizes oral communication and immersion in the
target language, avoiding translation and using real-life Main Advocates:
situations. Teachers use visual aids, gestures, and Maximilian Berlitz, Charles
Direct Method demonstrations to convey meaning directly. Berlitz, François Gouin
Relies on repetitive drills and pattern practice,
emphasizing listening and speaking skills over explicit Main Advocates: Charles
Audiolingual grammar instruction. Language learning is akin to habit Fries, Leonard Bloomfield,
Method formation through mimicry and reinforcement. Robert Lado
Focuses on the mental processes involved in language
learning, such as memory, attention, and problem-solving. Main Advocates: Jean
Learning is scaffolded through cognitive tasks that Piaget, Lev Vygotsky,
Cognitive Method challenge learners' thinking processes. Jerome Bruner
Learners construct their own understanding of language
through active engagement, interaction, and reflection. Main Advocates: Lev
Constructivist Instruction is learner-centered, encouraging exploration Vygotsky, Jerome Bruner,
Method and discovery. John Dewey
Prioritizes meaningful communication and interaction in
the target language, with a focus on real-life contexts and Main Advocates: Wilga
Communicative tasks. Learners engage in authentic communication to Rivers, H. H. Stern, Diane
Method develop fluency and proficiency. Larsen-Freeman
Emphasizes the personal growth and self-actualization of
learners, creating a supportive and learner-centered Main Advocates: Carl
environment. Teachers act as facilitators, fostering Rogers, Abraham Maslow,
Humanistic Method autonomy and creativity. Charles Curran
Promotes interaction between learners and between
learners and the teacher, fostering collaboration and Main Advocates: Michael
negotiation of meaning. Learning occurs through Long, Merrill Swain, Rod
Interactive Method meaningful dialogue and cooperative activities. Ellis
Language learning revolves around completing
meaningful tasks, promoting communication and
Task-based problem-solving skills. Tasks are authentic and scaffolded Main Advocates: N. Prabhu,
Language Teaching to support language development. David Nunan, Jane Willis