Cross-Language Mediation in Foreign Language Teaching and Testing

By (author) Maria Stathopoulou

Publication date:

10 September 2015

Publisher

Multilingual Matters

Dimensions:

210x148mm
6x8"

ISBN-13: 9781783094110

This book contributes to the growing field of foreign language teaching and testing by shedding light on mediation between languages. Stathopoulou offers an empirically-grounded definition of mediation as a form of translanguaging and offers tools and methods for further research in multilingual testing. The book explores what cross-language mediation entails, what processes and strategies are involved, and the challenges often faced by mediators. As well as stressing the importance of administering tests which favour cross-language mediation practices, the author encourages the implementation of language programmes which promote the mingling-of-languages idea and target the development of language learners’ effective translanguaging practices. Researchers studying translanguaging, multilingualism, multilingual testing and the use of mother tongue in the foreign language classroom will all find this book of interest.

Preface
Chapter 1 Introduction
Chapter 2 The Notion of Mediation: An Interdisciplinary Overview
Chapter 3 Theorising Mediation
Chapter 4 Mediation Tasks
Chapter 5 Mediation Strategies
Chapter 6 Mediation Strategy Use and Task Type
Chapter 7 Mediation Strategy Use and Proficiency Level
Chapter 8 Conclusions and Suggestions for Future Research
Chapter 9 Teaching and Testing Mediation: A Means for Promoting Multilingualism
References
Notes
Appendices

This study tackles a timely and yet underinvestigated area of foreign language education, that of cross-language mediation. By casting new light on the limitations of a narrowly monolingual vision of language education and testing, the book offers a substantial contribution to researchers and practitioners alike. Readers are invited to venture into an ambitious plurilingual perspective, one that stresses the dynamic and reflective nature of the language learning process.