Processability Theory, second language learning and teaching in the Asia-Pacific region

This century has been projected as the Asian century, when Asia is understood to play an increasingly influential role in world economics, politics, and culture. In parallel with this projection, the value and magnitude of learning English and Asian languages as second/foreign/additional languages are also growing. Learning second languages is ever more important in today’s globalised world since the ability to speak additional languages promotes the individual’s participation in the international process. Learning English, especially, has become a key educational focus in the Asia-Pacific region. At the same time, many young people all over the world are keen to learn Asian languages, such as (Mandarin) Chinese, Hindi, and Japanese, not only to further their career opportunities but also to follow their curiosity and interest in Asian cultural attractions. Think, for example, of young people’s fascination with Japanese Manga, or their keen interest in Korean young music such as K-Pop’s. Moreover, foreign language education encourages mutual understanding among people and promotes more peaceful and harmonious societies in this diverse world (Donitsa-Schmidt et al., 2004).