Research on Foreign Language Teaching and Learning in Turkey (2005-2009)

• Published in: Language teaching Vol. 44; no. 3; pp. 328 - 353
• Main Authors: Alptekin, Cem, Tatar, Sibel
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Cambridge University Press 01-07-2011
• Subjects: Applied Linguistics; Conference Papers; Cultural Influences; Doctoral Dissertations; Foreign Countries; Language Skills; Language Teachers; Measures (Individuals); Periodicals; Second Language Instruction; Second Language Learning; Teacher Education; Turkey; Turkey
• ISSN: 0261-4448
• DOI: 10.1017/S026144481100005X

This is an overview of research on applied linguistics and foreign language education in Turkey, surveying nearly 130 studies from the period 2005-2009. Following a brief presentation of the history and current sociopolitical situation of foreign language education in Turkey, the article focuses on research that characterizes the most common interests of academics and practitioners in the following areas: foreign language teaching and teachers, foreign language learning and learners, foreign language teacher education, the four language skills, measurement and evaluation, and the relationship between language and culture. Our discussion of each area is based on information extracted from local professional journals, conference proceedings and papers and Ph.D. dissertations. The studies examined reveal that, in general, practical concerns assume priority over theoretical issues, a substantial proportion of research being conducted on EFL learning and teaching.