Materials adaptation: why leave it all to the teacher?

Abstract

This article begins by discussing the background to the idea of learner involvement in syllabus design. It seems unlikely that full learner participation in decisions concerning content and methodology will be possible in most circumstances, but it is suggested here that learner creativity can be introduced in other ways, specifically in the area of materials adaptation. The article describes five principles which lie behind learner involvement in materials adaptation. These principles are then illustrated concretely by means of four extremely diverse opportunities for learner involvement in the adaptation process.