Stephen Krashen and Language Acquisition

Summary

In this video, Steve Kaufmann introduces Stephen Krashen's influential theories on language acquisition. Krashen posits that language learning occurs through two distinct yet independent methods: subconscious acquisition and conscious learning. He emphasizes the importance of comprehensible input, suggesting that language is acquired through understanding messages rather than through repetition or grammar drills. Kaufmann highlights Krashen's five hypotheses, including the natural order and the monitor hypotheses, which explain the sequence of language element acquisition and the limited role of conscious grammar knowledge. Kaufmann encourages language learners to explore Krashen's work for a deeper understanding of the language learning process.

Takeaways

• 📚 Stephen Krashen is a prominent figure in language acquisition theory, offering valuable insights for language learners.
• 🧠 Krashen's theory posits two independent ways of developing language ability: subconscious acquisition and deliberate learning, with the former being primary.
• 🌱 The Natural Order Hypothesis suggests that language elements are acquired in a set order, regardless of their complexity.
• 👨‍🏫 The Monitor Hypothesis indicates that conscious knowledge of grammar plays a limited role in actual language use and can sometimes hinder fluency.
• 🔄 Comprehensible input is the cornerstone of language acquisition, as per Krashen's Input Hypothesis, emphasizing understanding over mere exposure.
• 🚫 'Talking is not practicing' counters the belief that output alone can lead to language acquisition; it's the input that truly facilitates learning.
• 📈 The 'i+1' formula implies that learners acquire new language elements when exposed to input slightly beyond their current level of understanding.
• 🏫 In classroom settings, methods like Total Physical Response can be used to provide simplified, comprehensible input to beginners.
• 🌐 Krashen's theories are supported by extensive research and are accessible through his books and free online materials.
• 🌟 Continuous exposure to a language, even without feeling immediate progress, leads to gradual improvement according to Krashen's findings.

Q & A

Who is Stephen Krashen, and why is he significant in the field of language acquisition?

Stephen Krashen is a prominent linguist and educator known for his influential theories on language acquisition. His work is significant because it provides a comprehensive framework for understanding how people learn languages, emphasizing natural and subconscious learning processes over formal instruction.

What are the two independent ways of developing language ability according to the acquisition-learning hypothesis?

According to the acquisition-learning hypothesis, language ability is developed in two ways: 1) Language acquisition, a subconscious process similar to how children learn their first language, and 2) Language learning, a deliberate effort involving formal education, such as learning grammar rules in school.

What is the natural order hypothesis in Krashen's theory?

The natural order hypothesis states that there is a predictable sequence in which language learners acquire grammatical structures, independent of the simplicity or complexity of those structures. This sequence remains consistent regardless of how much effort is put into teaching specific grammar points.

How does the monitor hypothesis explain the role of grammar knowledge in language acquisition?

The monitor hypothesis suggests that conscious knowledge of grammar rules serves as a 'monitor' that can correct language use but plays a limited role in actual language acquisition. Over-reliance on the monitor can hinder fluent communication because it slows down speech as learners focus on applying rules.

What is the input or comprehension hypothesis, and why is it crucial in language learning?

The input or comprehension hypothesis asserts that language acquisition occurs when learners understand language input that is slightly above their current proficiency level (i+1). Comprehensible input, where the message is understood, is considered the most effective way to learn a language, rather than through grammar drills or repetition.

Can language acquisition be achieved through speaking practice alone?

No, according to Krashen, speaking practice alone does not lead to language acquisition. The key to learning a language is receiving and understanding comprehensible input. Once learners have enough input, speaking will naturally develop as part of the acquisition process.

What challenges do beginners face in understanding language input, and how can they overcome them?

Beginners often find it difficult to understand any language input because they lack basic knowledge. Krashen suggests using methods like Total Physical Response (TPR) or other techniques that simplify the language and provide context, such as gestures or visual aids, to help beginners start acquiring the language.

How does the concept of 'i+1' relate to language learning?

The concept of 'i+1' refers to the idea that learners acquire language most effectively when they are exposed to input that is just beyond their current level of understanding (i). This incremental learning ensures that learners continuously build on what they already know.

Why does Krashen believe that language acquisition is immune to deliberate teaching methods?

Krashen argues that language acquisition follows a natural order that cannot be altered by deliberate teaching methods. Regardless of how much effort is put into teaching specific grammar points, learners will acquire them according to the natural sequence determined by the brain's internal mechanisms.

What advice does the speaker give to those interested in learning more about Stephen Krashen's theories?

The speaker advises those interested in learning more about Krashen's theories to visit Krashen's website, where they can find a wealth of free material. He also suggests reading Krashen's books, which provide detailed explanations and research supporting his theories on language acquisition.

Outlines

00:00

📚 Introduction to Stephen Krashen's Language Acquisition Theory

In this segment, Steve Kaufmann introduces Stephen Krashen's influential work on language acquisition. Kaufmann emphasizes the importance of understanding the language learning process, highlighting Krashen's book as a concise source of essential knowledge. Krashen's five hypotheses are introduced, starting with the acquisition-learning hypothesis, which differentiates between subconscious language acquisition and deliberate, school-based learning. Kaufmann shares his personal experience with Krashen's work, describing it as a 'Eureka' moment, and encourages viewers to explore Krashen's free resources for a deeper understanding of language learning.

05:02

🌟 The Role of Input in Language Acquisition

This paragraph delves into Krashen's input hypothesis, which posits that language acquisition occurs through understanding messages, not through repetitive drills or grammar rules. Kaufmann explains that comprehensible input is the key to learning, and that language is acquired incrementally, building on what is already known (i+1). He discusses how teachers can use methods like Total Physical Response to simplify language and make it more accessible for beginners. Kaufmann also suggests that tools like LingQ can simulate a sheltered environment for language learning outside the classroom, allowing learners to start with comprehensible input and gradually increase complexity. He concludes by reiterating the value of Krashen's insights for anyone serious about language learning.

Keywords

💡Stephen Krashen

Stephen Krashen is a renowned linguist known for his theories on second language acquisition. In the video, he is introduced as the best explainer of how we learn languages, with his work being central to understanding the process of language acquisition. The speaker recommends Krashen's books and website for anyone interested in language learning.

💡Language Acquisition

Language acquisition refers to the process by which humans learn a language. In the video, it is the main theme, with the speaker discussing Krashen's theories on how this process works, emphasizing that understanding this process is crucial for anyone learning a language.

💡Acquisition-Learning Hypothesis

This hypothesis, as mentioned in the video, suggests that there are two independent ways of developing language ability: acquisition, which is a subconscious process, and learning, which is a more deliberate effort typically associated with formal education. The video argues that acquisition is the primary method through which we learn languages.

💡Natural Order Hypothesis

The natural order hypothesis posits that there is a predetermined sequence in which language learners acquire grammatical structures, regardless of their complexity. The video uses the example of the progressive form in English to illustrate that some structures may be acquired early despite their complexity, while simpler ones may take longer.

💡Monitor Hypothesis

The monitor hypothesis, as discussed in the video, suggests that our conscious knowledge of grammar rules (the 'monitor') plays a limited role in actual language use. It implies that focusing on grammar rules during speaking can inhibit fluency, as the cognitive load of recalling rules can interfere with the natural flow of speech.

💡Comprehensible Input

Comprehensible input is a core concept in the video, referring to the idea that language is acquired through understanding messages that are slightly beyond one's current level of proficiency (i+1). The speaker emphasizes that this is the only effective way to acquire a language, as opposed to rote learning or repetition drills.

💡Total Physical Response (TPR)

TPR is a teaching method mentioned in the video where the teacher uses gestures, pictures, and simplified language to help learners begin to understand and produce language. It is an example of how comprehensible input can be facilitated in a classroom setting, especially for beginners.

💡I+1

The term 'i+1' represents the idea that learners acquire language when they are exposed to input that is slightly more advanced than their current level of understanding (i). The video explains that this is how language acquisition progresses, as learners build on their existing knowledge to grasp new concepts.

💡LingQ

LingQ is a language learning platform mentioned in the video, which the speaker believes can create a sheltered environment for language learning outside of a classroom. It uses mini-stories with repetition and the ability to look up words, which aligns with the principles of comprehensible input.

💡Sheltered Environment

A sheltered environment, as discussed in the video, refers to a context where language learners are provided with input that is modified to be more comprehensible, such as through simplification, repetition, or use of visual aids. This concept is central to the video's message about how language should be taught and learned.

Highlights

Stephen Krashen's theory of language acquisition is essential for anyone learning a language.

Krashen's work is available for free on his website, offering valuable insights into language learning.

The Acquisition-Learning Hypothesis suggests two independent ways of developing language ability: subconscious acquisition and deliberate learning.

Language is primarily learned naturally as a subconscious process, not through formal schooling.

The Natural Order Hypothesis states that language elements are acquired in a set order, regardless of their complexity.

Grammar rules taught in school have limited impact on actual language acquisition.

The Monitor Hypothesis indicates that conscious knowledge of grammar plays a small role in language acquisition.

Language learning occurs through understanding messages, not by practicing output.

Comprehensible input is the key to language acquisition, as explained by Krashen's Input Hypothesis.

The 'i+1' formula suggests learning happens when we are exposed to input slightly beyond our current level of understanding.

Total Physical Response (TPR) is a method that can help beginners understand language through physical actions.

LingQ is a system that mimics a sheltered language learning environment, even for those not in a classroom.

Language learning starts with acquiring small bits of comprehensible input to build a foundation.

As language comprehension increases, the complexity of input can be gradually increased.

Krashen's research supports the idea that continuous exposure to a language leads to gradual improvement.

Understanding the process of language acquisition can help learners stay motivated and effective.

Transcripts

Anyone who's going to spend the time and effort to learn a language

should understand how the process works and there is no better

explainer than Stephen krashen.

Hi there, Steve Kaufmann here today.

Today, I'm going to talk about Stephen Krashen and the theory

of language acquisition.

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I appreciate it.

So, uh, I mentioned Steven Krashen in one of my previous videos, and I said that

he has put out a book, a thin book, uh, which really, he says all there is that

we need to know about language acquisition and someone asked, what is the book?

Well, actually there are quite a few books and I would recommend that people Google

for Stephen Krashen go to his website and you'll find all kinds of free material.

And I think it's important for people who are interested to learn a language,

interested in language learning, that they understand how the process works and the

best explainer of how we learn languages in my opinion, by far, is Stephen Krashen.

And, uh, so I was gonna, I thought I would do one or several videos

where I walk through some of his explanations about language learning.

So this is a book that I got in Taipei when I was there

I don't know, 15 years ago.

And he was presenting there and I didn't know him, but I listened to him and

it was kind of like a Eureka moment.

And I bought this book.

So let's just start here and it's not like I'm reading from the Bible, but almost.

So the principles of language acquisition.

First of all the following five hypotheses, you know, explanations of

how we learn are the core of current theory on language acquisition.

First of all, the acquisition learning hypothesis claims that

we have two independent ways of developing language ability.

One is language acquisition as a subconscious process and the

second one is a deliberate effort, the way we learn in school.

And his point is that we learn primarily naturally in a, as a subconscious process

and that the rules and the grammar that we learn at school don't help us very much.

The second hypothesis is the natural order hypothesis, which states that there is

a natural or.der with which we're going to acquire the elements of a language.

And there's a natural order, uh, for acquiring certain elements of grammar.

And it doesn't necessarily relate to how simple or complex those

particular grammar issues are.

And he uses the example of the sort of progressive form in English.

The "...ing" I'm going, learning, doing versus the third person singular,

which takes an "s" as we know.

Takes an "s" takes an "s".

So even though the idea that the third person singular in the present tense takes

an "s" is a very simple concept, it takes a long time for most language learners,

people learning English to acquire.

Whereas the "...ing" form, that continuous or the progressive

form, is acquired very early.

And studies have shown that a number of issues in grammar in different languages

seem to be acquired in the same order and it doesn't really matter how much

effort is put into teaching these.

It's not because something is taught that we acquire it

because there is a natural order.

And so the natural order is not based on simplicity or complexity,

it's immune to deliberate teaching.

And so the, and the correlary in a way is that, you know, the natural

order is not the teaching order.

So you may still teach different things, but it's going to be acquired

according to this natural order.

The third element of his language acquisition theory is

the monitor hypothesis and the conscious sort of teaching of the

language creates in us a monitor.

Here are the correct rules.

Here is how the language is spoken, but he makes the point that the

monitor, our knowledge of grammar can make only a very small contribution

to language acquisition, because there are so many rules of grammar.

And so few people who know all the rules.

The idea that the learner will know the rule when he or she needs to

use it, will remember the rule.

If the learner spends their time and effort on thinking about the

rule and I"'m about to say this now, let's think about the rule.

Is this correct?"

They won't be able to speak because it's just simply too

difficult to do while speaking.

So the monitor, if anything, can actually inhibit speaking.

So the monitor, uh, as a means of, you know, improving our knowledge

of a language is not very effective.

Okay.

The next thing is the input or comprehension hypothesis.

We, we learn languages when we understand the message, when we're

interested in a message and we understand the message comprehensible

input is the only thing that works says Krashen in language acquisition.

We have tried grammar rules.

We have tried repetition drills and the input hypothesis, uh, claims,

however, that comprehending messages is the only way language is acquired.

There is no individual variation in the fundamental process

of language acquisition.

And then he goes on to explain that we acquire language to input

when we already have enough things that we have already acquired.

So that I plus one, we, we acquired that next thing that we could learn.

We can learn once we have acquired sort of the previous things.

And so we learned from context.

And therefore the teaching method has to be focused on giving

learners comprehensible input.

Now a corollary of the, uh, input hypothesis is that

talking is not practicing.

In other words, you can't output your way to language acquisition.

It is the input that's going to give you the language acquisition.

If you get enough input, then you will have that situation, sort of N+1,

because we'll be getting so much input that there will be elements there that

you are already familiar with that will enable you then to learn some

additional elements with enough input.

Now, immediately, people are going to say, well, when you first start,

you don't understand anything.

And so Krashen in this book explains how in a classroom, this sort

of total physical response TPR.

It's a method in the classroom where the teacher can simplify the language

content, can use gestures, can use pictures, can use a whole range of

things to help the learner start to get a toehold in the language, create

that N or he refers to it as I, so that incrementally additional things can

then be added to what is understood.

I happen to believe, with a system like LingQ, and people are going to

criticize me, but the idea that we can create that same sheltered environment,

even for people who are not in a classroom, uh, using say the mini stories

where there's a lot of repetition of vocabulary, you can look words up, you

can listen again, you can read again.

Somewhere, you have to get a start in the language.

You have to get a start.

Initially, nothing is comprehensible.

You have to start to acquire little bits and pieces so that you can then

build on that with additional things that start to become comprehensible.

And so the complexity of what you're listening to, it gets greater and greater

as you're able to expand into new domains.

I think I'll stop it there.

He has a lot of research to back up what he said.

But I, I just think it's it's well worthwhile anyone who's going to spend

the time and effort to learn a language should understand how the process works.

And there is no better explainer than Stephen Krashen.

So whether it be this particular book or whether you simply go to

his website and download all of the free material that's there, I'll

leave a link in the description box, I very much suggest you do it.

And, uh, I think armed with this sense of how we learn, like, even

if we think we're not progressing, it's obvious from what Krashen writes

based on all of his research and experience, as long as we continue to

expose ourselves to the language, we will continue to gradually improve.

Okay.

I thought I'd just bring you up to date on, on where you can get some

more information about Stephen Krashen, because there were questions about that.

Thank you.