Audio-lingualism (a short explanation)

Summary

Audiolingualism is a language teaching method based on B.F. Skinner's behaviorism theory. It focuses on instilling new language habits and eliminating old ones through mimicking, repetition, and overlearning. Key techniques include dialogue-based instruction, fill-in-the-blank sentences, and structural pattern drills. Grammar is taught inductively, with minimal explanation, while vocabulary is limited and context-based. Audiolingualism emphasizes proper pronunciation, error-free utterances, and positive reinforcement. Despite criticisms from Noam Chomsky and others, its methods remain valuable in teaching pronunciation, though it is often criticized for disregarding content in favor of linguistic manipulation.

Takeaways

• 🧠 Audiolingualism is based on B.F. Skinner's theory of behaviorism, which views language learning as a set of habits.
• 🗣️ The goal of audiolingualism is to replace old language habits with new ones through repetition and mimicry.
• 📜 New language material is presented in dialogue form, often through memorized scripts.
• 🔁 Students are encouraged to mimic their teachers, memorize phrases, and practice overlearning.
• 📏 The use of the first language is prohibited, as it is seen as reinforcing old language habits.
• 🧩 Structures are taught one at a time, progressing from pronunciation to word order, then verb forms.
• 📚 Vocabulary is strictly limited and learned in context to ease memorization.
• 🎧 Audiolingualism often relies on technology like tape players, language labs, and visual aids for practice.
• 💬 Successful responses are immediately reinforced with positive feedback to instill correct habits.
• ❌ A criticism of audiolingualism is its focus on language manipulation, sometimes at the expense of meaningful content.

Q & A

What is the core theory behind audiolingualism?

Audiolingualism is based on B.F. Skinner's theory of behaviorism, which suggests that language learning involves forming new habits and eliminating old ones.

How is new language material presented in audiolingualism?

New language material is presented in dialogue form, often referred to as scripts, which students are expected to mimic and memorize.

What is the role of repetition in audiolingualism?

Repetition, also known as overlearning, is crucial in audiolingualism. Students practice skills extensively to the point where they can produce language automatically and error-free.

Why is the use of the first language discouraged in audiolingualism?

The first language is discouraged because it involves old language habits, which contradicts the goal of forming new language habits.

How are language structures taught in audiolingualism?

Structures are taught one at a time and sequenced through contrastive analysis. Students first learn pronunciation, followed by word order, and then verb affixes.

What is inductive analogy in the context of audiolingualism?

Inductive analogy involves exposing students to multiple examples of a grammatical form, allowing them to infer the grammar rules on their own without explicit explanation.

How is vocabulary handled in audiolingualism?

Vocabulary is strictly limited and taught in context to make it easier for students to memorize a few words effectively.

What types of tools and aids are commonly used in audiolingualism?

Audiolingualism often uses tape players, language laboratories, and visual aids to enhance language learning and proper pronunciation.

What is a key criticism of audiolingualism according to its critics?

A common criticism is that audiolingualism manipulates language without focusing on meaningful content. Students often practice phrases that are not contextually relevant to their lives.

What is a noted strength of audiolingualism, despite its criticisms?

Despite criticisms, audiolingualism remains effective in teaching pronunciation, as its focus on repetition and habit formation helps learners develop clear speech.