A Paradigm Shift for Language Education: A Book Review

• Published in: Journal of Language and Education
• Main Authors: Aidillah Suja, Muassomah, Sutaman
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Published: National Research University Higher School of Economics 2025-03-01
• Subjects: Language Education; Project-Based Learning and Teaching; 21st-century Skills
• Online Access: https://jle.hse.ru/article/view/22681

In line with 21st-century curriculum reforms, "enhancing student learning" has long been a central focus in education, including language education. Researchers and educators have shown strong interest in student-centered approaches. Despite numerous efforts to improve the quality of language education, many classrooms remain predominantly teacher-centered. Project-Based Learning and Teaching (PBLT) is one approach currently receiving significant attention. The book "A Paradigm Shift for Language Education: Project-Based Learning and Teaching" by Gulbahar H. Beckett provides an in-depth perspective on the need for a paradigm shift in language education by adopting PBLT. It highlights the significance of combining academic content instruction with developing 21st-century skills in second language (L2) learning. Beckett explains how PBLT can help students achieve deep understanding, think critically, and solve problems in real-world scenarios.