The main aim of this book is to define and discuss concepts and competences related to the teaching and learning of English as a foreign or second language. English didactics is a multi-faceted area of research, which concerns student teachers at every level of teacher education, teachers in school and researchers. We all have a shared interest and common goal: to explore and promote insight into both theoretical and practical aspects of English teaching and learning. The book opens with a historical overview of English teaching in Norway. Each chapter is devoted to a specific area of the subject and discusses the topic in a historical context, before exploring various theoretical concepts and relevant research. The topics are also discussed in relation to the development of current and forthcoming Norwegian curricula. A special focus is given to discussing practical classroom work as well as theoretical and practical challenges connected to the topic of each chapter. Teaching English in the 21st Century. Central Issues in English Didactics brings together historical, theoretical and practical aspects of the subject. As such, the book is an invaluable tool for teachers, student teachers, researchers and others engaged in the continuously developing field of English didactics. Anne-Brit Fenner is Associate Professor Emerita of English Didactics in the Department of Foreign Languages at the University of Bergen, where her field of research has focused on intercultural competence, the teaching of literature and learner autonomy. Aud Solbjørg Skulstad is Professor of English Didactics in the Department of Foreign Languages at the University of Bergen. She has been engaged in pre-service education of teachers of English since 1996. Other contributors: Angela Hasselgreen, Torill Irene Hestetræet, Hild Elisabeth Hoff, David Newby & Sigrid Ørevik.