Ecological approach

The Ecological Approach to Language Learning highlights the comprehensive development of language skills within context.  Like organisms living in an environment, speakers interact in a context

“to integrate into and to influence their discourse  community.” Thornbury

In this perspective, learners are not viewed only as brains to be filled with structures and vocabulary, but also as whole persons living and moving in a specific environment.

To learn more about this approach check out:

• This book by Larsen-Freeman about the Ecological Approach to Language Teaching. (Larsen-Freeman describes complex systems and their relation with applied linguistics.)
• Or this interesting post by Scott Thornbury: E is for Ecology