Second Language Learning Theories – The Behaviouristic Approach as the Initial Theory towards Modern Researches

Seminar paper from the year 2006 in the subject Didactics for the subject English - Pedagogy, Literature Studies, grade: 2-3, University of Kassel, language: English, abstract: The way of teaching a Second Language is still subject of research and discussion today. Current studies on L2 teaching methodologies show the necessity of investigation. Long time, L2 teaching methodolgies were closely related to theories on L2 learning or Second Language Acquisition (SLA). Those theories became the most popular in World War II and the behaviouristic approach of the 1950’s and 60’s was influential and leading during a long period following. That is why this paper concentrates on the behaviouristic approach, considering B.F. Skinner especially. As other researchers found this approach insufficient, various studies have been initiated. They tried to find evidence for opposite theories or they enlarged and/or changed behaviourists´ views. The behaviourist approach still has some influence on L2 teaching today. However, modern investigations made clear that there is a need for distinction between L2 learning theories and teaching methodologies.