TASK BASED LANGUAGE TEACHING 

What is Task-Based Language Teaching?

Task-based language teaching (TBLT) is a type of instruction that relies on the use of authentic target language to do meaningful tasks. TBLT is also referred to as task-based instruction (TBI) and can be considered a branch of communicative language teaching (CLT). The notion of tasks is central to this type of instruction. The assessment of learning is mainly based on task outcome and not only on the accurate use of the target language. For this reason, TBLT is believed to be effective in learning target language fluency and developing student confidence.

Theory of language

• Language is primarily a means of making meaning: TBLT considers meaning as a central focal point in language teaching. The approach is concerned with the outcome of tasks.
• Multiple models of language inform task-based instruction: Structural, functional and interactional models influence TBLT adherents.
• Lexical units are central in language use and language learning: TBLT considers vocabulary items to include not only individual words but also phrases, sentence frames, collocations and prefabricated routines.
• “Conversation” is the central focus of language and the keystone of language acquisition: Learners are required to produce and understand communicative messages. That is exchanging information is crucial to language acquisition.

Theory of learning

• Tasks provide both the input and output processing necessary for language acquisition: If Krashen stresses the importance of comprehensible input, TBLT advocates have argued that comprehensible output is also of equal importance.
• Task activity and achievement are motivational: Tasks appeal to learners’ learning styles and may involve physical activity, collaboration, and partnership.
• Learning difficulty can be negotiated and fine-tuned for a particular pedagogical purpose: Tasks may be designed in such a way that they meet learners’ level of proficiency. That is, providing the appropriate target input is crucial to facilitate language acquisition.

TASK

There is no general consensus regarding the meaning and / or interpretation of "task". The given definitions of "task" vary greatly (Nunan 1989; Kumaravadivelu 1993). These options can range from tasks that are expected to take place outside the classroom to tasks specifically designed for the language classroom. There seem to be two broad foundations (Nunan 1989: 40)

Task type
-Real world
-Pedagogical

Real world
- Psycholinguistic
- Needs analysis
Pedagogical
-Test
-SLA theory / research

Advantages of TBLT

Implicit learning

The aim of TBLT is to help learners develop implicit knowledge of the language that will enable them to participate easily and naturally in communication. The learners get the form and use of the target language without being explicitly being taught. The role of the teacher is to design tasks by replicating and creating the conditions for language learning and for communication that exists outside the confines of the classroom. The aim is that the learners’ interlanguage will gain implicit language knowledge while doing tasks.

Incidental learning

Much of our everyday learning is incidental. TBLT provides opportunities for unplanned learning. Completing a real-world task allows the acquisition to take place without any deliberate intention on the part of the learner or the teacher.

Meaningful learning

TBLT allows meaningful communication to occur during the accomplishment of tasks.

Disadvantages of TBLT

• Some teachers criticize TBLT for focusing mainly on fluency at the expense of accuracy.
• TBLT requires a high level of creativity and initiative on the part of the teacher.
• TBLT requires resources beyond the textbooks and related materials usually found in language classrooms.
• Evaluation of task-based instruction can be difficult. The nature of task-based learning does not allow it to be objectively measurable.

  websites:

https://www.myenglishpages.com/blog/task-based-language-teaching-tblt/

https://journals.openedition.org/asp/3750?lang=en