Language Learner Histories: A project for the LLL SIG (2008)

Hello everyone,
When I present at conferences, I am often asked: Where did you learn so much about your students? My reply is quite simple: language learner histories.

For those of you not familiar with the term, an LLH is a research tool developed by Tim Murphey whereby students write (in either their L1 or L2) about their English learning experiences, thus sharing them with the reader, usually their teacher. Having become aware of LLHs, I decided to use them to gather data for a study about motivation among my older learners. The response I got was impressive, fascinating, and a little depressing. In short, my students shared (in Japanese) what reads as a modern history of language education in Japan.

I am certain that these histories would be a fascinating read for younger generations of students in Japan. In addition, a number of people, many of whom are unable to read Japanese, have shown an interest in these histories. I imagine you can see where this is going! If the Japanese members of the LLL SIG worked together to translate these pages, I am certain this body of work would 1) make a wonderful addition to our homepage, possibly attracting new members to the SIG and 2) perhaps become a publication in its own right!

If there is anyone willing to coordinate this project, please contact me at skier@ps.toyaku.ac.jp. The more members willing to help out, the faster and easier it will be to finish this project!

Looking forward to hearing from you,

Eric M. Skier
LLL SIG Coordinator