Humanizing language teaching and learning: the NLP approach / Mohd Fauzi Kamarudin

Language teaching and learning worldwide is embracing rapid change due to globalization, competition, market orientation and technology. Language teaching and learning in the modern world puts emphasis on maximizing learners’ potential through immersive learning. Along with this are greater calls to humanize language teaching and learning to ensure that these processes are contextualized, dynamic and is geared towards a personalized experience for students, taking into account students’ personalities and learning styles. Several researchers have argued for the use of the Neuro-linguistic programming (NLP) to humanize teaching and learning. NLP is a tool based on the way the brain works and an understanding of the mental and cognitive processes behind human behavior. Despite having sceptics, particularly in terms of its applicability and 'quasi science' nature, recent research has shown that through recognizing patterns and communication model, NLP can contribute towards the betterment of the teaching and learning process. This paper presents an overview of the findings in current research focusing on NLP in teaching and learning and discusses the implications of these findings for English language learning. The paper concludes by suggesting several NLP techniques that are useful for language teachers.