Research in second language acquisition

This page introduces two of the most influential researchers in Second Language Acquisition (SLA): Professors J. Cummins and S. Krashen.

Professor Jim Cummins

Cummins has made probably the most significant contribution to our understanding of the pedagogical, sociological and political factors affecting the linguistic and academic development of second language learners in schools.

Here you can read a summary of the language learning theories of Professor Cummins, together with their implications for mainstream teachers.

And here you can visit Cummins' website .

Professor Stephen Krashen

Krashen has the most persuasive and coherent theories of how a second language is learned. He is probably the most influential expert in the field in the last half century. He has also written related issues such as the power of reading, whole language and cognitive development.

Here is an introduction to the work of Stephen Krashen, together with the implications for mainstream teachers.

Here is Krashen's website .

Further reading

Teachers who want to delve more into the insights gained from SLA research are recommended to read Wikipedia's page on second language acquisition. The page also contains an extensive bibliography.