The Thinking Approach to Language Teaching as a Tool for the Resolution of the Key Contradictions of Language Teaching and Education

Abstract

Key contradiction is seen as a central problem underlying the development of any field. The key contradictions of language teaching are formulated at three levels, namely the ones of approach, method, and procedure. At the same time, language teaching being a part of education must take account of the problems of the latter. The key contradiction of education is seen as the one between a necessity to impart knowledge valuable for students and the pace at which this knowledge becomes outdated. It appears that any new approach to language teaching in the knowledge society must take account of the above contradictions. The Thinking Approach to language teaching is presented as a possible step to the resolution of the key contradictions of language teaching and education.