Second Language Acquisition for Biblical Studies with Jennifer Noonan
Apr 10, 2024
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Dr. Jennifer Noonan discusses second language acquisition for biblical studies, exploring implicit vs. explicit language knowledge, reading fluency, and vocabulary acquisition. She shares her journey from teaching assistant to PhD researcher and emphasizes the importance of applying SLA methods in teaching Biblical languages.
Distinction between explicit and implicit language knowledge is fundamental for effective language acquisition.
Language input (listening and reading) and output skills (speaking and writing) are essential for language acquisition and fluency.
Building vocabulary and improving reading fluency are crucial for effective comprehension and proficiency in Biblical languages.
Deep dives
Understanding Second Language Acquisition for Biblical Studies
The podcast episode delves into the exploration of Second Language Acquisition (SLA) within Biblical Studies. Dr. Jennifer Noonan, author of 'A Handbook of Second Language Acquisition for Biblical Studies,' shares insights on the relevance and need for applying SLA research to teaching Biblical languages like Hebrew and Greek. She discusses her journey from Seminary teaching assistant to PhD researcher in this field, emphasizing the importance of bridging the gap between SLA research and Biblical languages education.
Differentiating Between Explicit and Implicit Language Knowledge
The episode highlights the distinction between explicit and implicit knowledge in language acquisition. Explicit knowledge involves conscious understanding of language rules and paradigms, while implicit knowledge pertains to intuitive, procedural knowledge that enables practical use of the language without explicit rule articulation. Understanding this difference is crucial for effective language learning and achieving fluency in reading, writing, speaking, and listening.
Significance of Language Input and Output
Language input, comprising listening and reading, is essential for acquiring a new language, emphasizing the importance of comprehensible input for effective learning. Output skills such as speaking and writing play a crucial role in confirming language acquisition, providing opportunities for feedback, and facilitating interaction for deeper comprehension and language development. Both input and output contribute to language acquisition and improve fluency and proficiency.
Enhancing Vocabulary Acquisition and Reading Fluency
Vocabulary acquisition and reading fluency are key components discussed in the podcast episode. Achieving reading fluency requires rapid, accurate reading with ease, which necessitates knowing a high percentage of words in a text to enhance comprehension and interpretation. Strategies for building vocabulary include flashcards, direct vocabulary learning, extensive reading, and focusing on knowing 95 to 98 percent of vocabulary for effective comprehension and language proficiency.
Advancing Language Teaching Practices
The episode concludes by offering recommendations for incorporating Second Language Acquisition principles in language teaching practices. Suggestions include enhancing personal fluency, leveraging modern language textbooks for inspiration, and engaging with resources and communities focused on language acquisition in the biblical context. Encouragement is given to educators to adopt innovative approaches and collaborate to enhance language learning experiences for students.
Final Remarks
In closing, the episode highlights the journey of integrating Second Language Acquisition concepts into Biblical Studies, emphasizing the importance of adopting effective teaching strategies and continually improving language proficiency. By embracing modern language learning methods and fostering a supportive community of language educators, the podcast aims to promote enhanced learning experiences and proficiency in Biblical languages.
In this episode, we talk to Dr. Jennifer Noonan about her book "A Handbook of Second Language Acquisition for Biblical Studies." She talks about the relationship between explicit and implicit language knowledge, the raw materials of language acquisition, the importance of reading fluency, and the nature of vocabulary acquisition.
Jennifer Noonan grew up on a small farm in northern Ohio. She completed her BA at Malone College (Canton, OH) and MA at Ashland Theological Seminary (Ashland, OH). She received her PhD in Old Testament and Semitic Languages from Hebrew Union College (Cincinnati, OH), which is where she met her husband, who teaches Old Testament and Biblical Hebrew for the Columbia Bible Seminary of CIU. They have an 11-year-old daughter, who is the extrovert of the family. In addition to teaching Hebrew and Old Testament part-time for CIU, Jennifer also leads a Bible study for the CIU seminary women, gives piano lessons, and teaches online courses for Liberty University. Jennifer also enjoys cooking, photography, needlework, and traveling.
As always, this episode is brought to you by Biblingo, the premier solution for learning, maintaining, and enjoying the biblical languages. Visit biblingo.org to learn more and start your 10-day free trial. If you enjoy this episode, be sure to subscribe on your favorite podcast app and leave us a review. You can also follow Biblingo on social media @biblingoapp to discuss the episode with us and other listeners.
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