Is Stephen Krashen's Theory of Comprehensible Input Misunderstood?

TLDRStephen Krashen's theory of comprehensible input is often oversimplified on YouTube. While it emphasizes the importance of exposure to large amounts of understandable language to acquire a language, it is more complex than just that. Krashen's theory includes five components: learning vs acquiring, the linguistic monitor, the natural order of language learning, comprehensible input, and the affective filter. Krashen's approach is potentially effective for ADHD learners as it focuses on fun engagement with the language and does not require rigid structure.

Key insights

💡Comprehensible input is important for language acquisition but should not be oversimplified.

🔑Krashen's theory includes five components: learning vs acquiring, the linguistic monitor, the natural order of language learning, comprehensible input, and the affective filter.

🌟Krashen's approach is potentially effective for ADHD learners as it focuses on fun engagement with the language and does not require rigid structure.

🧠Exposure to a large volume of your target language at a level you can engage with is important for language learning.

💪Analyzing the language and employing additional strategies like active recall can benefit language learners.

Q&A

What is Stephen Krashen's theory of comprehensible input?

Krashen's theory emphasizes the importance of exposure to large amounts of understandable language to acquire a language.

What are the five components of Krashen's theory?

The five components are learning vs acquiring, the linguistic monitor, the natural order of language learning, comprehensible input, and the affective filter.

Is Krashen's theory only effective for ADHD learners?

No, Krashen's theory can benefit all language learners, but it is particularly well-suited for ADHD learners due to its emphasis on fun engagement and lack of rigid structure.

Is comprehensible input the only factor in language learning?

Comprehensible input is important, but additional strategies like analyzing the language and employing active recall can enhance language learning.

Are there any other theories of language learning?

Yes, there are various theories of language learning, each with its own emphasis and approach.

Timestamped Summary

00:00Introduction to Stephen Krashen's theory of comprehensible input and its popularity on YouTube.

00:28Explanation of the five components of Krashen's theory: learning vs acquiring, the linguistic monitor, the natural order of language learning, comprehensible input, and the affective filter.

07:22Discussion on the benefits of comprehensible input and its potential effectiveness for ADHD learners.

08:55Importance of exposure to a large volume of target language and the potential benefits of analyzing the language and employing additional strategies.

12:24Speculation on the relevance of Krashen's approach for ADHD learners and the potential overlap with characteristics of ADHD.