Learning to Speak the World: Globalisation and Linguistic Competencies November 2011, 180 pages ISBN 978-92-64-12324-3 www.oecd.org/bookshop?9789264123243 http://dx.doi.org/10.1787/9789264123557-en
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The rise of globalisation makes language competencies more valuable, both at individual and societal levels. This book examines the links between globalisation and the way we teach and learn languages. It begins by asking why some individuals are more successful than others at learning non-native languages, and why some education systems, or countries, are more successful than others at teaching languages. The book comprises chapters by different authors on the subject of language learning. These authors bring a wide range of perspectives and research experience to this subject. There are chapters on the role of motivation in non-native language learning; the way that languages, cultures and identities are connected; and the insights that neuroscience provides into how the brain understands and produces language. The book also explores issues affecting migrants, their education and opportunities to learn languages; and non-native language learning and teaching in North America, Europe, Asia, South America and North Africa. The final chapters present new approaches to the subject of language learning, such as the role of music as a tool for non-native language learning; and new frameworks for thinking about language education.
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