Language Awareness in language learning and teaching: A research agenda

Abstract

Following on from my state-of-the-art article on Language Awareness and language learning(Svalberg 2007), in this paper I will discuss specific research tasks which are centrally concerned with different aspects of language awareness(LA): ‘explicit knowledge about language, and conscious perception and sensitivity in language learning, language teaching and language use’. The overall argument is that research is needed into how LA is constructed by language learners and teachers through engagement with language(Svalberg 2007; 2009). I will sometimes refer specifically to awareness of grammar (form-meaning) but hope the paper will stimulate ideas for research into other LA aspects of language learning and teaching. The absence of other issues and areas (such as LA and multilingualism, intercultural LA, critical LA, LA and language policy) is a function of the personal nature of the paper and the limitations of space.