theory of learning and learner variables

Introduction to Theories of 

Language Learning;

Learner Variables

Learning theories

• How do people learn
• How to help people learn
• How to determine what people know

Learning theories

Learning theory

Educational

practice

Language Learning Theories

Shumann‘s

Acculturation

Krashen‘s 

monitor

Universal 

grammar

Cognitive

Conversation

Behaviourism

Behaviourism

3 stages: stimulus → response → reinforcement

(light/sound → action → reward)

Bernard Skinner related the behaviourist 
processes to that of L1 learning (→ audiolingual 
method – patterned drills, repetitions → good 
habits of the learners)

Universal grammar

https://www.google.cz/search?q=chomsky++universal+grammar&client=firefox-
b&source=lnms&tbm=isch&sa=X&ved=0ahUKEwjhvdPr5aLPAhXII8AKHXmZAvoQ_AUICCgB&biw=1680&bih=941#imgrc=M80GNLkT4I9tZM%3A

Krashen‘s monitor LA

• American ´applied linguist´ Stephen Krashen

explicitly divides the L learning into:

• ACQUISITION – subconscious process leading 

to spontaneous conversation

• LEARNING – controlled process, outcome –

language not available for spontaneous use

Cognitive theory

• Similar to behaviourism
• Knowledge is measured

Conversation

• Learn via conversations, discussions, 
• Pick up language/ natural /listening 
• Conduction conversation, listening
• Interaction with teachers and students

Schumann‘s acculturations

• You learn a language to be part of the culture
• Typical for immigrants as they want to be part 

of the culture

• It promotes merging and understanding 

cultures

• This very acquisition process takes place in 

natural contexts of majority language setting. 

The two traditional methods

• Grammar-translation method

• Direct method

POPULAR METHODOLOGY

Audio-lingual method

PPP method – Presentation-Practice-Production
TBL – task based learning, 
TPR – total physical response,
lexical approach etc.

Homework

Go to e-learning:
1, Watch a method - Please, find your name 
under a link and watch the relevant method, 
take notes and think about the method. You will 
discuss it at the tutorial. 
2, Read the attached material and do 3b

Learner variables

Individual differences

• reasons for learning the L, 
• linguistic level/competence, 
• previous learning experiences, 
• learning styles, 
• skills and aptitudes, memory, 
• motivation, 
• intelligence, 
• speeds of working and learning, preferences for