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In:Applying Corpora in Teaching and Learning Romance Languages
Edited by Henry Tyne and Stefania Spina
[Studies in Corpus Linguistics 122] 2025
► pp. 294–322

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Chapter 12
Exploring the role of corpora in Spanish Language Teaching (SLT)

Insights into instructors’ views, practices, and needs

 | The Open University
 | Instituto CervantesManchester
 | University of Málaga
Published online: 20 November 2025
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https://doi.org/10.1075/scl.122.12gut
Abstract
This chapter examines instructors’ views on using language corpora for Spanish language learning and teaching. Data obtained via a questionnaire completed by 200 teachers registered their knowledge, practices, and needs in relation to utilising these resources in class. The study uses quantitative research methods to analyse the data collected. Results show that corpora are mostly unknown and currently underused by Spanish language instructors, although there is a positive attitude in exploring their potential. Data also reveal a correlation between teaching contexts and the use of corpora in the language classroom. Lack of training seems to be the main reason preventing teachers from incorporating corpora into their practices. Offering opportunities to explore corpus affordances might result in a greater use.
Article outline
  • 1.Introduction
  • 2.Theoretical framework
    • 2.1Corpora in language teaching
    • 2.2Spanish corpora and language teaching
  • 3.Methodology
    • 3.1Data collection tools and analysis
    • 3.2Participants
  • 4.Results
    • 4.1Sources of knowledge and training in corpus use
    • 4.2Spanish L1 corpora
      • 4.2.1Knowledge of Spanish L1 corpora
      • 4.2.2Use of L1 corpora in SLT
    • 4.3Learner corpora
      • 4.3.1Knowledge of learner Spanish corpora
      • 4.3.2Use of learner corpora in SLT
    • 4.4Teaching practices using corpora
  • 5.Discussion
    • 5.1Instructors’ knowledge and training in corpora
    • 5.2Current practices in using corpora in SLT
    • 5.3Training needs
  • 6.Conclusions
  • Cited corpora
  • ?ack?
  • References
References (69)
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