The idea that what we produce demonstrates mastery rather than how we perform on a test is exactly what a language teacher wants to "hear". I want my students to be able to survive in real life situations. They need to be able to communicate; get the point across successfully. That means they can order food, get directions, make a reservation, catch a plane, train or rent an automobile. It doesn't mean the grammar is perfect or the syntax is impeccable. Of course we want our students to speak well but little mistakes that don't interfere with the meaning aren't that end of the world.
The ability to connect with native speakers all over the world is an amazing tools for students studying another language. It gives them the opportunity to perform through written and spoken words and make a meaningful connection. It brings the language to life, which is the whole point and purpose for learning to speak another language. My hope is that this shift in learning will give people a chance to continue using what they learned in school in the real world and that I will stop hearing, "I took __ (insert language) for 5 years and don't remember anything."
How amazing and opportune these days are! I remember my years of taking high school French in the 80's and wondering how I was ever going to be able to speak if I didn't travel. I wish I could tell you that I remembered everything...though I did travel to Quebec a few years ago and impressed my husband, which is no easy feat!
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