Missing links in language teaching approaches in the context of globalisation

Globalisation has been exerting unprecedented influences on language teaching methodology through its transformation of learner needs, learner characteristics, teaching mode, advancements of teaching technology, intercultural exchange and multilingualism. Undoubtedly, globalisation has brought many benefits to language teaching. However, existing teaching approaches suffer from many inadequacies in failing to meet the emerging needs caused by globalisation. Four missing links in language teaching approaches are highlighted in this chapter. First, there is a lack of awareness of the fluidity of language learner identity, resulting in a lack of guidelines for facilitating the development of language learner identity. Second, inadequate attention is given to ideology related to language learning in terms of social injustice and inequality. The last two missing links are a lack of connection between language education theory and practice and obsolete assessments. Directions for future development in language education theory proposed in this chapter include meeting the needs of fluid second language (L2) identity, raising ideological consciousness, shifting language education theory focus to teacher needs, taking actions to make a difference to the world, and transforming assessments for globalisation.