Understanding the Language Skills

My thoughts to describe Communicative Language Teaching are that this approach involves learners to focus more on the meaning rather than the form of a second language. Teachers, like Savignon, lead their learners to take risks and speak in other than memorized patterns. I understand the importance of role plays and simulations have on more spontaneous communication between learners. This type of classroom interaction, even if guided by the instructor, becomes more realistic and meaningful for real life. This social aspect of communication through pair work and group work enables learners to be able think and speak on their feet. I really like the idea of classroom trips so that learners not only experience the language but also the culture. I think an important part of communication is listening (receptive) whether to a native speaker or not. For learning the writing skills (productive) I can see using pragmatic examples as ie. requesting a letter of reference. I found of interest in the article when mentioned the opportunities for computer-mediated communication(CMC) will increase dramatically in the years ahead. I look at our recent history and how social media has had such a profound influence in changing society.
I do have some concerns on how the competence in learning is measured and by what standards? I would also think that you need some form of grammar. I don't know if this learning should take place at a beginner stage or when learners have a stronger vocubulary?