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The Cons And Disadvantages Of The Audiolingual Method In Foreign Education

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‘Direct Method’ became widely known in the United States through its use by Sauveur and Maxmilian Berlitz. Sauveur (1907) suggested that a foreign language could be taught without translation or the use of the learner’s native tongue. However, Direct method failed to consider the practical realities of the classroom. The Direct method represented the product of the enlightened amateurism. It involved several drawbacks. It was largely dependent on the teacher’s skill rather than on a textbook so not everyone embraced it enthusiastically. Known words could be used to teach new vocabulary, using mime, demonstration and pictures. The principles below refer to natural methods, known as Direct method which adopted the following principles and procedures: …show more content…

This method is primarily an oral approach to teaching. That is why; the process of teaching involves extensive oral instruction. The instruction focuses on immediate and accurate speech. Hence, grammar is taught with little provision (Brooks, 1964; Richards & Rodgers, 1999). Although this method began to lose its popularity in the late 1960s, Audiolingual method and materials continue to be used today. The Audiolingual method was adopted for teaching foreign languages in North American colleges. Dialogues and drills form the basis of audiolingual classroom practices. Dialogues provide the means of contexualizing key structures. Correct pronunciation, rhythm, intonation and stress are emphasized. The language may be presented orally first; written representations are withheld from learners in early stages. Drills and pattern practices are features of the Audiolingual Method. Below there are some common characteristics of different drills: (Brooks, 1964; Richards & Rodgers, 1999). • Repetition: Students repeat an utterance aloud as soon as s/he hears

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