SILENT WAY

v  Introduction

According to Cattegno’s conclusion, learning is a process which we initiate by ourselves by using our inner resources to meet the challenge at hand.

v        The learning hypotheses

-       Learning is facilitated if the learner discovers or creates rather than remembers and repeats what is to be learned       

-       Learning is facilitated by accompanying (mediating) physical object

-       Learning is facilitated by problem solving involving the material to be learned

v        Theory of learning

-       A successful learning involves commitment of the self to language acquisition through the use of silent awareness and then active trial

-       Silent Way learners acquire “inner criteria”.

-       The silent Way student is expected to become independent, autonomous and responsible

v        Goals

-       Students should be able to use the language for self-expression.

-       Students need to develop their own inner criteria for correctness by each other or themselves without the dependence of the teacher.

v        Teacher’s roles:

-       Start with something the students have already known and build from that to the unknown. 

-       As a technician or engineer: The teacher is a silent helper who only gives what help is necessary.

-       Respect the autonomy of the learners in their attempts at relating and interacting with the new challenges

v       Student’s roles:

-          Make use of what they know

-          Free themselves of any obstacles that would interfere with giving their utmost attention to the learning task

-          Actively engage in exploring the language.

v  The advantages of Silent Way

-          To stimulate students’ responses

-          To educate  students’ consentration

-          To train in making students’ decisions

v  The disadvantages of Silent Way

-          Teacher-centered

-          Just studying  sillable pronunciation

-          Leaning proses there is no guarantee

-           There is no repeatation explanation