A historical retrospective of the teaching methodology of a second or foreign language from the end of the 18th century until today: η διαδρομή

The ability to communicate with individuals from different cultures inside and outside our own society is directly linked to successful and essential interaction between the parties involved. The issue of teaching a second language and the training of teachers charged with this task, in a constantly "shrinking" world, is an issue of primary importance. Knowing the roots of second and foreign language methodology can help both teachers and researchers understand the pedagogical foundations and dynamics behind the changes marking the area of second language learning. This understanding can perhaps allow for development of more effective practices in second and foreign language teaching and teacher training. In this paper we describe and examine briefly the changes in second language teaching and teacher training from the end of the 18th century through to [the] start of the 21st century. Examples are given from the area of English as a second or foreign language in England and the United States.