Abstract

Listening has long been regarded as central to language learning, yet its value was traditionally minimized due to the difficulties in accessing a range of useful material. That is no longer true in the digital age, where free online materials either devoted to or suitable for supporting the development of language and listening skills abound. However, for students outside of a formal class structure, there are a number of challenges in making effective use of this opportunity. These include:

1. identifying and controlling technologies and tools for language learning including the use of transcripts, captions, translations, glossaries, linked dictionaries, and speed controls;

2. locating and selecting appropriate digital audio and video resources for independent learning, and

3. determining paths through that material that will maintain motivation while supporting language development.

I argue that the teacher has a central role to play in helping language learners move beyond the structured activities of the classroom to independent listening for language development. The talk discusses the role of learner training in achieving that goal and includes examples from the presenter’s advanced listening and vocabulary course. The notes from that course will be made available to the audience.