Innovative english language pedagogy for small town context

BJ, Karthik (2021) Innovative english language pedagogy for small town context. Students’ Journal of Education and Development (7). pp. 49-63.

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Abstract

English language education is a challenging task in India. Particularly in the smaller towns, where it is still a ‘foreign’ language that is far removed from the local context. However, it is considered to be critical for both professional and social progress. Year after year, reports on learning levels and drop-out rates are evidence that the prevalent teaching methods are failing. There have also been studies stressing on the need to make English language lessons more meaningful by keeping in mind the context of the child. This study seeks to unravel the challenges and opportunities of teaching and learning English in a small town. It takes a multi-faceted perspective by examining viewpoints of both teachers and students. This paper advocates for widespread adoption of communicative language teaching methods and ‘translanguaging’ using the child’s first language. It also lays emphasis on utilizing suitable literature and necessity of support structures to create a conducive environment for English language education. The study concludes with suggestions on systemic changes to evolve teaching-learning English as a second language. Since the students in the small towns are not immersed in English language, it will be beneficial for educators to foster advancement in the students’ first language. A deeper engagement in their first language can lead to simultaneous development of both languages.

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Articles in APF Magazines

Authors:

BJ, Karthik

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