Issues in language learning

This article considers the current debate in Australia into the learning of literacy and foreign languages. It examines not only the literacy levels attained by Australian students in their national language (English) in comparison to these in other countries, as well as between Australian states, but also theories involved in school learning and the learning of language, with particular reference to the learning of a foreign language. The article raises and discusses 12 issues that arise in language learning. It is noted that in many countries it is necessary for students to learn at least three languages, namely, the mother language, their national language and an appropriate foreign language, that make heavy demands on the time available in the curriculum of the schools if adequate levels of competence in language usage are to be attained.