EVELOPING CRITICAL THINKING BY ENHANCING COMPENSATION STRATEGIES IN TEFL

Abstract

The study focuses on supporting the use of compensation strategies in foreign language teaching and learning. First, the concept of foreign language strategies in general is explained. Then, the terminology linked to a special group of strategies, labelled either as “communication strategies” or “compensation strategies” is discussed in more detail in terms of their history and classification. The controversial approach of scholars related to the name and the concept is elaborated. The importance of enhancing these strategies in foreign language teaching and learning is highlighted, too. Further, the study provides meta-analysis of research conducted in compensation strategies. Finally, the study delivers results of a questionnaire survey aimed at investigating which compensation strategies secondary school teachers in Slovakia support in developing perceptive and productive skills of their learners.