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This critical review investigates the efficacy in using Task-based Language Teaching (TBLT) to boost learner communicative competence as TBLT is taking a pioneering role in developing communicative language in Asia and Vietnam. The application of TBLT in Vietnam has faced several problems, including exam-based learning programs, classroom constraints, and teachers' willingness for innovative approaches. Our in-depth analysis exposed why Vietnamese and Asian teachers cannot initially trust TBLT, and overcome these challenges to enhance communicative competence. The thorough review of research works in Asia evinced that (1) TBLT can holistically improve communicative competence and (2) the criticisms against TBLT can be solved with patience, flexibility, strategic task design, and openness. Then, the authors suggested a table for TBLT practitioners to consider based on students’ level of proficiency to cater to different teaching contexts and other pedagogic suggestions to implement TBLT in exam-oriented classes. Finally, we also introduce some research gaps for further investigation.

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Background Medulloblastoma is well known as the most common malignant brain tumor identified in children, frequently found at an intra-axial location in the posterior cranial fossa. Extra-axial medulloblastoma is uncommon and often misdiagnosed. We believe that a thorough understanding of atypical medulloblastoma cases is important in daily practice. Case presentation We present the unique case of a 39-year-old woman of Asian descent who suffered from headaches and right-sided hearing impairment. A right extra-axial medulloblastoma with an extremely low apparent diffusion coefficient of 0.404 × 10−3 mm2/second was detected on magnetic resonance imaging. The initial diagnosis suggested schwannoma or hemangioblastoma. However, the postoperative histopathologic findings indicated medulloblastoma (World Health Organization grade IV). Pre- and postoperative magnetic resonance imaging revealed no drop metastasis, but adjuvant radiation therapy was still required as a standard treatment therapy Conclusions Extra-axial medulloblastoma is an uncommon tumor that is often mistaken for other cerebellopontine angle neoplasms. We describe a rare example of extra-axial medulloblastoma, characterized by a low apparent diffusion coefficient. When evaluating an atypical cerebellopontine angle neoplasm, the apparent diffusion coefficient should be considered a relevant indicator.