Language Learning by Different Means: Formal and Informal Developments

Abstract

This chapter notes the difficulties in sustaining languages in the formal education sectors and argues that informal learning can be an important way in which learners can meet their language needs. It examines the benefits and challenges of more informal styles of learning, as resources may now be selected to meet individual interests or needs. The chapter shows how informal methods of learning have become an increasingly valuable tool as technology has advanced, with the impact of social media and advances in the sharing of content between individuals as well as interaction with other users worldwide. It examines the availability of materials, the range of informal assessment methods and the increasing value of heritage languages. It notes that, with Brexit, the UK will need to look worldwide for new markets so that skills in languages which have not hitherto been taught in schools and only rarely in universities will be a definite advantage.