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Into French and the World via Short‐Wave
Author(s) -
Rorke Robert Cornelius
Publication year - 1978
Publication title -
foreign language annals
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.258
H-Index - 49
eISSN - 1944-9720
pISSN - 0015-718X
DOI - 10.1111/j.1944-9720.1978.tb01579.x
Subject(s) - active listening , class (philosophy) , variety (cybernetics) , foreign language , psychology , linguistics , mathematics education , pedagogy , computer science , communication , artificial intelligence , philosophy
Short‐wave radio broadcasts provide a rich source of materials for foreign language teaching. The author reports on the introduction of French broadcasts in an intensive spoken French class. Students responded enthusiastically, appreciating the variety and authenticity of linguistic models and the exposure to world affairs. They also enjoyed the challenge of deciphering frequently complex radio messages, collaborating constructively in their efforts. Careful listening to the broadcasts guaranteed a readiness and willingness to speak in class. The dynamic, authentic content of international radio evoked a high level of student‐teacher involvement both in and out of the classroom. Students and instructor saw dramatic proof of improved listening and speaking skills. Class structure and testing are discussed, and suggestions for other applications of short‐wave materials at different levels are proposed.