We are at the Stage of Learner-centered Language Teaching

“Changes in language teaching methods throughout history have reflected recognition of changes in the kind of proficiency learners need, such as the move towards oral proficiency than reading comprehension as the goal of language study; they have also reflected the changes in theories of the nature of language and language learning” (Richards & Rogers 1991).

The Development of Language Teaching Methods

Pre-1960s
Grammar Translation Translation from L1 to L2 (see Kelly, 1969)
1961
Audiolingualism Behaviorism: stimulus-response-reinforcement. Emphasis on habit Formation and repetitive drills. (see Skinner, 1957)
1971
Communicative Language Teaching Developing communicative competency. Utilizes discrete items. (see Wilkin, 1976)
1977
TPR (Total Physical Respense) Functional and translational situation (see Asher, 1977)
Post-1978
Nature Approach Learning versus acquisition (see Krashen & Terrell, 1983)
Nowadays
Learner-centered Method Needs analysis. Different learning styles considered. Balance between form and function. (see Nunan, 1992)