Review of current literature on vocabulary acquisition in teaching and Essay

Review of current literature on vocabulary acquisition in teaching and learning English as a Foreign Language (EFL) - Essay Example (Brumfit 1978 1-2) As the usage of English spread to different parts of the world, it inevitably led to the divergence of the language leading to variations such as American, Australian, Indian, South African & etc. These variations are influenced by local culture, custom and language and are reflected in variations in grammar, meaning, spelling, syntax and pronunciation. The core of Standard English common for all English speaking countries is the reference point for all these variations. Vocabulary of the language is expanding at a phenomenal rate and many new words coined for use in diverse fields such as arts, humanities, science and technology. (Barber 1965 227-275) Developments in information technology and the advent of the 'internet' have added a whole new dimension to the teaching and learning of English as a foreign language. Motivational theories of learning: The motivation to learn a language is twofold: one, 'instrumental' in which case the language is learnt for operational purposes to be able to communicate with other speakers of the language and two, 'integrative', in which case the learner is trying to identify much more closely with the native speakers. The usage of English may be broadly divided into two categories: the usage of English as mother tongue (MT), its usage as second language (SL) or foreign language (FL). When English is taught or learnt as a foreign language it is mostly for operational reasons or the motivation is 'instrumental'. (Brumfit 1978 5-6) Reviewing the work of a number of researchers Lessard-Clouston, defines the characteristics of language learning strategies: they are learner generated, enhance language learning, are visible, involve information and memory, generate a desire for control or autonomy in the learner, allow learners a choice, allow learners to become more self-directed, expand the role of language teachers, are problem oriented, involve many aspects not just the cognitive, can be taught, are flexible and are influenced by a variety of factors. Transfer of strategy of one language skill to another is a related goal. (1997) Learning English as a second (or foreign) language depends on contextual factors (the impact of the learner's mother tongue), individual learner differences (cognitive factors like intelligence, aptitude and language strategies and affective factors like attitude, motivation and anxiety), learning opportunities and outcomes. Mitchell and coauthor base their thesis on Spolsky's "general model of second language learning." They opine that any theory that explains the dynamics of SLA should be able to state clearly and explicitly the ground it covers and claims it makes; systematize procedures for data gathering; explain L2 phenomena, the reasons for them and any mechanisms for change; engaging with other theories in the field. (Mitchell. et al. 2000 11-26). Any approach in researching SLA has to take into consideration that language is learnt in "context". This has to take into consideration both the internal and external realities and investigate the mode by which mental processes convert reality into contexts. Research methodologies, which rely on objectivity, cannot deal with the theory of context. There is a need to reappraise qualitative research methods to test their viability in research into language learning. While

The Localization of Management in China The Implications and Essay

The Localization of Management in China The Implications and Considerations for Foreign Companies - Essay Example Finding - The book provides very sound advice on understanding the operational strategy of China's economy. There is no economy in the world as important and yet as poorly understood as China's. In his penetrating book, Sull helps us understand what really happens in some of China's most important companies. The book is packed with startling stories and much strategic advice for entrepreneurs who can seize the opportunity and manage the risk in the dynamic Chinese market. Finding - This is an intriguing study which addresses the key factors which motivate the local Chinese to open the doors of their land to do business with foreign company. The emphasis is on business lessons which foreign company needs to learn to assimilate into the local culture. The dragon is the Chinese market. Subject - The book is designed to help westerners who intend to conduct business in China. The information contained in the book can also be very helpful if you are visiting China for business or pleasure and even if you desire simply to get greater insight into Chinese worldview and not only the appropriate way to act in different situations, but also some historical and social background which is the inherent part of Chinese business culture. Finding - Thomas G. ... The information contained in the book can also be very helpful if you are visiting China for business or pleasure and even if you desire simply to get greater insight into Chinese worldview and not only the appropriate way to act in different situations, but also some historical and social background which is the inherent part of Chinese business culture. 6. Author-Thomas Geoffrey Moore Title- China in the World Market: Chinese Industry and International Sources of Reform in the Post-Mao Era. Subject- Analysis of China's position in the World market with emphasis on the reform in post-Moa Era. Finding - Thomas G. Moore examines the role of the outside world as a source of change in post-Mao China. Based on extensive documentary and interview material, the book adds the Chinese case to a long tradition of country-based studies by political economists, historians, and area specialists that have chronicled the experiences of developing countries as they enter specific industrial markets in the world economy. This book will be timely and provocative reading for anyone concerned with the nature of China's deepening participation in the world economy and its consequences for the country's development prospects, internal reforms, and foreign policy. 7. Author - Michael Porter Title - Porter on Competition Subject - Strategy formulation in coping with competition Finding - In this book Porter carefully organizes the material within three Parts: First, he focuses on competition and strategy for companies at both the level of a single industry and then for multinational or diversified companies; next, he addresses the role of location in competition; and then he Part III, he addresses some important