The role of using first language and translation in young learners Essay

The role of using first language and translation in young learners classes - Essay Example The paper tells that the most appropriate way to teach English as a Second Language (ESL) or English as a Foreign Language (EFL) is a source of primary scholarly debate. Recently, more attention has been given to the use of translation and the native language (L1) in communicative English Language Teaching (ELT). Most of the theories inform us that young children's language development is influenced by many factors, including using their first language to explain concepts and express abstract reasoning. This is due to the presence of what some researchers call the cognitive window of development. This is often used in cognitive learning in association with the development of self-motivational strategies in children who are learning to use cognitive learning skills that focus on self-efficacy. Planning and goal-setting are involved with what is perceived by many to be an increasing amount of self-regulation in children who succeed in forming self-regulating meta-cognitive processes as they grow older through early to middle childhood (ages 7-12). This theory can exist comfortably alongside theories of the cognitive window, as these self-regulation methods also help children to assimilate knowledge, not intuitively through a window of cognitive functioning, but structurally in terms of cognitive awareness of the expectations of others in the learning process. This theory pertains directly to middle childhood, which is an age range that is currently and actively taking ESL in Oman.

Major Changes in Kuwaiti Culture and Economy during the Past 20 Years Research Paper

Major Changes in Kuwaiti Culture and Economy during the Past 20 Years - Research Paper Example A marketing technique that works in, say, North America, may not work on another continent, like Asia. Using the same marketing method may actually backfire and even cause harm to a product or service when used in a country with a different culture (TradePals). The following factors need to be considered in international marketing: International marketing research plays an important role in the identification and development of a company’s strategies for internationalization. It enables a business to identify, evaluate and compare potential foreign market opportunities and develop a marketing plan. Research also provides a company with foreign market intelligence to help it anticipate events, take appropriate action, and prepare for global changes. Kuwait is located between Iraq and Saudi Arabia, and a short trip across the Persian Gulf from Iran. Kuwait was nominally part of the Ottoman Empire until 1899 when it fell under British protection. It remained a British protectorate until 1961, although Britain granted independence to Kuwait in 1914. Oil was discovered in 1938, and Kuwait is believed to have about 10 per cent of the worlds known oil reserves. With little arable land or natural fresh water with which to grow crops, petroleum dominates the Kuwaiti economy. Presently, Kuwait is a constitutional monarchy headed since 1977 by Amir Jabir al-Ahmad al-Jabir Al Sabah. Political parties are illegal in its 50-seat, popularly elected legislature, but several informal political groups — including Muslim groups — have put up candidates. Eighty-five per cent of Kuwaiti residents are Muslim, and only 45 per cent of the nation's residents are ethnic Kuwaitis. Others are mostly from elsewhere in the region. In August 1990, Iraq attacked and invaded Kuwait. Following several weeks of aerial bombardment, a UN-mandated coalition led by the United States began a ground assault in February 1991 that liberated  Kuwait.