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Individual Differences In Second Language Learners

Hello,
In this entry I'd like to talk about motivation and its role in learning languages.
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Genki, a popular textbook
Generally speaking, textbooks are pushed forward as the best way to learn a language. From what I understand, this general belief is based on an initial core consensus based on a tried-and-true approach which fossilized as time went on. This, of course, is just an assumption on my part.

Individual Differences in Second Language Learning
The problem with this I find, is that it disregards individual differences when it comes to learning in favor of a very strict approach. In their book How Languages are Learned (Lightbrown & Spada, 2012), the authors mention:

"As we saw in Chapter 3, learners' beliefs about the kind of instruction that is best can influence their satisfaction and success." (p.139)
In other words, if an individual doesn't want to rely on a textbook to learn because it goes against his beliefs, satisfaction/motivation and success will ultimately suffer. To disregard a person's belief in regards to languages in order to impose the "typical" approach ends up being detrimental and/or aggravating. In fact, a whole chapter in their book is about Individual Differences in Second Language Learning.
Case in Point
I think that concrete examples can speak volumes on their own. The suggestions to use a textbook are not met by open arms, that much is certain from reading the author's reaction:
Quote:
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*
Here the OP clearly states his individual difference and that he isn't looking for language learning methodology alternatives. From his initial post asking about の, it takes until reply #13 to actually end up discussing what the OP needs help with. The other messages are methodology related. As for the function of の, it's clearly covered for free on his website here. A simple link as a #2 reply would have worked.

Research on Learner Characteristics
In How Languages are Learned, several characteristics of language learners have been examined. Regarding Learning Styles, I find the following passage important:
"Nevertheless, when learners express a preference for seeing something written or spending more time in a language laboratory, we should not assume that their ways of working are wrong, even if they seem to be in conflict with the pedagogical approach we have adopted. [...] At a minimum, research on learning styles should make us skeptical of claims that a single teaching method or textbook will suit the needs of all learners". (p.59)
Conclusion
I think Lightbrown & Spada word my own beliefs regarding learning languages better than I could express them myself. While I don't expect my own beliefs to be espoused by the majority, I think it's important to hear multiple point of views when it comes to learning languages and more specifically in this case, Japanese.
Biography
How Languages are Learned
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Author
Zizka
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