|
This paper seeks to reconsider the definition of authenticity in terms of content rather than language. It is often found that learners' perspectives have been ignored to define authenticity. For example, most published conversation textbooks have had reputation in terms of authenticity. However, many learners do not like the textbooks and they sometimes give up their language learning. Why has this happened so often? In this project, 25 learners have studied one communication textbook and 4 movie scripts plus 3 drama scripts for one semester. Learner responses have been examined after two written tests and one interview were administered to them. The following results were found: 1) communication textbooks emphasize authenticity in terms of 'a native speaker' but they may ignore whether situations represented as 'authentic' language is real or not. As a result many students have a negative view of communication textbooks. 2) on the other hand, movies (including dramas) are more enjoyable because the content of movies is relevant to their lives or it is very attractive to them. So they are highly motivated to learn the language of the movies. In this respect, authenticity should not be defined in terms of 'a native speaker'. It should be considered in terms of 'content'. Then learners can focus on language learning with the help of the content. |
PDF Links
Full text via DOI
Download Citation
