Lecture Notes on Language Learning with Bill Van Patton

Introduction

• Speaker: Bill Van Patton
• Background: Former academic with over 30 years of experience in linguistics, language acquisition, bilingualism, and language teaching. Currently writing fiction full-time.
• Contributions: Authored 8-9 books, edited volumes, 200 chapters/articles, and textbooks in Spanish and French.

Perspectives on Language Learning

Divide in Language Learning Approaches

• Classical approaches: Textbooks, apps, structured learning.
• Input-based approaches: Focus on input as primary for language acquisition influenced by researchers like Dr. Stephen Krashen.

Misconceptions about Language Learning

• Key Misconception: Language can be reduced to rules learned from textbooks (e.g. grammar rules).
  • Textbook rules do not represent how language is actually used in communication.
• Input Importance: Input is essential for acquiring language; it's what ultimately contributes to communication skills.

Language Acquisition Process

• Mechanisms of Language Growth:
  • Language learners create a 'tenseless system' initially, focusing on meaning rather than strict rules.
  • Language develops through exposure to bits and pieces of data over time, not through memorizing rules.
• Example: Spanish verb forms (e.g. "vivir") evolve in learners' use through exposure and gradual understanding of tense and structure.

Grammar and Textbooks

• Textbooks as Learning Tools:
  • Textbook rules are akin to baby teeth: useful in early stages but not indicative of true language ability.
  • They help learners navigate early communication but are eventually replaced by more natural fluency.
• Learning Strategy: Focus on engaging with meaningful content rather than strict adherence to textbook rules.

Practical Language Learning

Daily Language Learning Routine (Hypothetical Scenario)

• If given a year to learn a challenging language (e.g., Korean):
  • Start with basic vocabulary and understanding of language structure (e.g. head-final languages).
  • Emphasize exposure to listening and reading for comprehension rather than focusing on grammar rules.

Importance of Speaking and Output

• Speaking is more about interaction and acquiring more input rather than just practicing language.
  • Real-time conversations foster language growth by exposing learners to more language.

Reading vs. Listening

• Value of Reading:
  • Essential for vocabulary growth and understanding complex sentence structures in both first and second language acquisition.
  • Reading fiction enhances understanding of language use and style.
• Listening Alone: Can be adequate for initial stages, but reading supports deeper language understanding and vocabulary richness.

Age and Language Learning

• Language Acquisition at Different Ages:
  • Anyone can learn a language regardless of age, although starting younger typically offers advantages in exposure time.
  • Success is influenced primarily by time spent engaging with the language and motivation.

Teaching and Language Acquisition

• Role of Teachers:
  • Teachers should act more as facilitators or "farmers" who help language grow in learners' minds rather than trying to "teach" language.
• Education System:
  • Many language teachers lack adequate training in linguistics and language acquisition principles.

Conclusion

• Final Thoughts: Language learning is complex and influenced by many factors, and it's important to focus on meaningful engagement with the language instead of rote memorization of rules.