scholarly journals Reticence in Chinese EFL Students at Varied Proficiency Levels

2009 ◽  
Vol 26 (2) ◽  
pp. 65 ◽  
Author(s):  
Meihua Liu ◽  
Jane Jackson
Keyword(s):  
Foreign Language ◽  
Interpersonal Communication ◽  
Teaching And Learning ◽  
Active Role ◽  
Language Teachers ◽  
First Year ◽  
Speech Communication ◽  
Proficiency Levels ◽  
Spoken English ◽  
Teachers And Students

Reticence in foreign language classes has long been a challenge for both teachers and students. With the advent of globalization, there is a pressing need for EFL (English as a Foreign Language) teachers to help reticent students develop the skills and confidence needed to take an active role in oral English lessons. This article reports on a study of reticence in EFL classrooms in a key university in Beijing. Five hundred, forty-seven first-year non-English majors with three proficiency levels answered a 124-item questionnaire with 20 items on reticence. In addition, one class from each proficiency group was selected for a more focused investigation of reticence and participation in oral EFL lessons. As well as the survey, data gathered during the 14-week term included reflective journals, videotaped observations, and interviews. Analyses of the data revealed that (a) the students were willing to communicate with their peers in English in class and considered speech communication valuable; the more proficient were most positive about interpersonal communication and the most willing to engage in interaction; (b) all the students, irrespective of proficiency level, were the most active during pair work and the least active when responding to teachers’ questions; the more proficient students tended to be the most active in all classroom activities; and (c) with increased exposure to spoken English and more familiarity with the English-learning environment, students at all proficiency levels became (more) active in class. Based on the findings, pedagogical implications are discussed with the aim of enhancing the teaching and learning of spoken English in foreign-language contexts.

scholarly journals English Language Teachers’ Perspective of Using L1 in TEFL Class

2021 ◽  
Vol 15 (1) ◽  
Author(s):  
Yella Dezas Perdani
Keyword(s):  
Foreign Language ◽  
Teaching And Learning ◽  
English Language ◽  
First Language ◽  
Language Teachers ◽  
West Java ◽  
English Class ◽  
Language Class ◽  
Teachers And Students ◽  
English Language Teachers

The research discussed the using the first language in teaching a foreign language that had been a debate for language teaching practitioners for decades in language acquisition. The debate was about whether it was all right to use it in a foreign language class or not and how it affected the students’ learning process and result. Because of the pro and cons of using the first language in teaching a foreign language, the research was conducted to find out the use of the first language in teaching English as a foreign language. The research aimed to discover to what extent and in which instances L1 was used by the teachers in their English teaching class in terms of the teaching stages, including pre-teaching, whilst-teaching, and post-teaching in the classroom. The research also searched teachers’ perspectives and reasons for using L1 in their English class. Moreover, the research used a qualitative method to gathered information from the participants. The participants were four English teachers who taught English at senior high school in Bandung-West Java province, Majalengka-West Java province, Pangkal Pinang- Bangka Province, and Kuok-Riau Province. The collections of the data were questionnaires and interviews. The findings show that most teachers use Indonesian as L1 in the whilst-teaching stage when they deliver the materials. They use L1 to clarify the students’ understanding of the materials given and explain English language concepts, grammatical concepts, and difficult words. They argue that using L1 helps both teachers and students in teaching and learning English as a foreign language.

scholarly journals Inverse translation and the language student: A case study

2020 ◽  
Vol 10 (1) ◽  
pp. 171-193
Author(s):  
Lucía Pintado Gutiérrez
Keyword(s):  
Foreign Language ◽  
Language Learning ◽  
Teaching And Learning ◽  
Language Teaching ◽  
Language Skills ◽  
Language Teachers ◽  
Language Classroom ◽  
Inverse Translation ◽  
The Impact

AbstractThis article explores the agency of the student in translation in language teaching and learning (or TILT). The purpose of the case study discussed here is to gain an overview of students’ perceptions of translation into the foreign language (FL) (also known as “inverse translation”) following a module on language and translation, and to analyse whether there is any correlation between students’ attitude to translation, its impact on their language learning through effort invested, and the improvement of language skills. The results of the case study reveal translation to be a potentially exciting skill that can be central to FL learning and the analysis gives indications of how and why language teachers may optimise the implementation of translation in the classroom. The outcome of the study suggests that further research is needed on the impact of translation in the language classroom focussing on both teachers’ expectations and students’ achievements.

Qurʾanic Figurative Language to Develop High Order Thinking Skills (HOTS) and Religious Tolerance among Language Learners

2021 ◽  
Vol 19 (2) ◽  
pp. 173-199
Author(s):  
Mahrus Asʾad ◽  
Ahmad Bukhori Muslim ◽  
Wagdi Rashad Ali Bin-Hady
Keyword(s):  
Foreign Language ◽  
Language Learning ◽  
Language Learners ◽  
Teaching And Learning ◽  
Figurative Language ◽  
Foreign Language Learning ◽  
Thinking Skills ◽  
Language Teachers ◽  
Religious Tolerance ◽  
Foreign Language Learners

Abstract Similar to other theistic texts, the Qurʾan has some figurative languages which require deep thought for good comprehension. However, how these rhetorical imageries can inspire the development of higher order thinking skills (HOTS) and religious tolerance among language learners, two necessary skills in the information-laden era, is still less known. This study explores how the Qurʾan’s figurative languages serve as an inspiring basis to develop Bloom’s revised taxonomy of analyzing and evaluating thinking skills in foreign language learning. Document analysis shows that many verses in Sura (Chapter) Joseph and other five chapters contain some simile, personification, and metaphor in recounting past prophetical and scientific events humans need to learn for life. Incorporated into learning materials, these figurative languages require the foreign language learners to use their skills of sensing, imagining, and making logical reasoning to discern the real meanings. The discussion of Sura Joseph in the Qurʾan which recounts some prophets of Abraham’s descendants can also increase religious tolerance among young followers of Abrahamic religions. The study recommends some strategies on how language teachers base their teaching and learning practices on these religious scriptures to develop students’ critical thinking and create a more harmonious global citizenship.

scholarly journals Pronunciation Errors of Letter “G” in English Language Made by Saudi Undergraduate Students

2016 ◽  
Vol 6 (4) ◽  
pp. 104 ◽  
Author(s):  
Huda Alqunayeer
Keyword(s):  
Foreign Language ◽  
Undergraduate Students ◽  
English Language ◽  
Female Students ◽  
Language Teachers ◽  
Test Results ◽  
Loan Words ◽  
Teachers And Students ◽  
English Language Teachers ◽  
Academic Year

The primary goal of the present study is to identify the problematic areas in the pronunciation of the letter “g” in English written words made by Saudi female learners of English as a foreign language, and the reasons for the weakness associated with mispronunciation of English written words which contain this letter. The population of the study was the female students (90 students) and their English language teachers (12 teachers) at the Qassim University during the academic year (2014-2015). There were two types of instruments used in this study. The first was a pronunciation test for the student participants in order to investigate the problematic areas of pronouncing “g” in different environments in different words; and the second a questionnaire for the teacher participants to provide comprehensive data about the causes of these errors of pronouncing “g” committed by EFL female students at Qassim University. Ninety female students were included for the pronunciation test and 12 teachers were asked to answer the questionnaire. Simple percentage was used for analyzing the data of recording words (pronunciation test). Results of the students’ recording words revealed that the participants mispronounced “g” before nasals (68%). According to the results of the teachers’ responses to the questionnaire suggested many factors that can cause difficulties for students in terms of pronouncing “g” in English written words. According to them, these difficulties are concerned with reading difficulties, nonstandard spellings, letters that follow “g” (many of them may become combinations), loan words, orthography (no correspondence between the English alphabets and their sounds). The researcher offers recommendations that might help teachers and students to overcome and reduce these mispronunciations of this letter in English written words.

scholarly journals WASHBACK TO LANGUAGE TEACHERS: A REVIEW OF MODELS AND EMPIRICAL RESEARCH IN AND BEYOND VIETNAM

2020 ◽  
Vol 36 (4) ◽  
Author(s):  
Dinh Minh Thu
Keyword(s):  
Professional Development ◽  
Foreign Language ◽  
Empirical Research ◽  
Teaching And Learning ◽  
Language Teachers ◽  
Policy Makers ◽  
Teachers Perceptions ◽  
The Past ◽  
Key Innovation ◽  
Teachers Professional Development

Washback, i.e., test effects on teaching and learning, has been emerging as an attractive research topic in language training and assessment for over the past 20 years for its significant implications of test validation and fairness for both policy-makers and practitioners. Presently, it deserves more Vietnamese researchers' interest in the context of the enactment of the National Foreign Language Project 2020 (extended to 2025), which puts language assessment as a key innovation requirement. Washback operates either positively or negatively; i.e. promoting or inhibiting learning. Teachers are considered the precursor in the washback mechanism. There is only one washback model on the washback effects on teachers, which is proposed by Shih (2009). This paper aims to critically browse other washback models besides Shin’s (2009) to generate a washback framework on teachers' perceptions and practices. Previous empirical washback research on teachers in and beyond Vietnam is, then, investigated in alignment with the aspects illustrated in the framework to point out achievements and gaps in the field. A qualitative approach of document analysis of over forty studies of differing types, i.e. books, dissertations and articles, has been adopted to reach the research aim. The discussion is divided into two major parts, including the washback models pertaining to teachers to scaffold a model for teachers' perceptions and practices, and the results in empirical research in terms of the aspects mentioned in the model. Findings show that washback on teachers' perceptions ranges from perceptions of the test itself, students' language ability, teaching contents and methodology to teachers' professional development. Plus, washback on teachers' practices concerns their selections of teaching contents and methodology in class as well as their involvement in professional development. The element of professional development can be considered a new light in the reviewed washback model. This has a significant meaning by raising teachers' awareness of developing themselves professionally. The current paper expects to contribute to elaborating the scenario of washback research for interested researchers, practitioners and policymakers not only in but beyond the context of Vietnam.

scholarly journals Mother Tongue Use in Beginner EFL Grammar Classes in Saudi Arabia: A Case Study

2021 ◽  
Vol 12 (4) ◽  
pp. 349-365
Author(s):  
Khulud Ali Tubayqi ◽  
Mazeegha Ahmed Al Tale’
Keyword(s):  
Foreign Language ◽  
Teaching And Learning ◽  
Mother Tongue ◽  
Arabic Language ◽  
Microsoft Excel ◽  
Thematic Content Analysis ◽  
Positive Attitudes ◽  
Teachers And Students ◽  
Actual Interaction

Using the mother tongue (MT) in English as a foreign or second language (EFL/ESL) classrooms is indispensable, especially in beginner classes. This paper aims to add to the present literature on this issue by highlighting the attitudes of both students and teachers towards MT use in English as a foreign language (EFL) classroom, the justifications for its use, and some of the actual interaction practices in grammar classes. It investigates the attitudes of 110 Saudi EFL female beginners and their two teachers toward using the Arabic language in EFL grammar classes at Jazan University. It also investigates the students’ reasons for using or avoiding their MT. Moreover, it presents some of the functions that MT serves in EFL grammar classes. To collect the data, the researchers used two questionnaires and classroom observations. For data analysis, they used Microsoft Excel and thematic content analysis. The results indicated that, although both students and teachers generally have positive attitudes toward using the MT in EFL classes, they are also aware of the adverse effects of its overuse. The results also revealed that the teachers and students use MT in EFL classes to serve different classroom functions that ease the teaching and learning processes. Based on these findings, the study provided recommendations for teachers, curriculum designers, and future researchers.

scholarly journals Teaching English as a Foreign Language in Iraq

2018 ◽  
Vol 2 (4) ◽  
pp. 409-446
Author(s):  
Bushra Saadoon Al - Noori
Keyword(s):  
Foreign Language ◽  
English Language ◽  
College Of Education ◽  
Language Teachers ◽  
First Year ◽  
Staff Members ◽  
Ibn Rushd ◽  
English Language Teachers ◽  
The Government ◽  
Daily Plan

Baghdad University is located in Baghdad; the Capital of Iraq, consists of many colleges via Sciences and Humanities , for example: College of languages, College of Arts, College of Education for Women and College of Education /Ibn Rushd and others. Each one of these Colleges consists of various departments. Our department is the English Department for four academic years. In the First year, we have four sections of more than fifty students each. Our students are boys and girls and all of them are going to be English Language Teachers because all these four academic years will make them qualified to be so. The government helps them to find jobs immediately after graduation. In these four years, our students spend 45 days in schools as a student - teacher and the staff members are visiting those two or three times to evaluate them in relation to the method of teaching and daily plan. Staff members will evaluate the way of treating the pupils in the secondary school, their way of teaching, their confidence inside the classrooms and many other points.

scholarly journals Peran Guru Dalam Peningkatan Kualitas Belajar Peserta Didik Pada Pembelajaran Daring Di Madrasah Ibtidaiyah

2021 ◽  
Vol 2 (1) ◽  
pp. 75-86
Author(s):  
Tri Budi Wulandani ◽  
Rif’an Humaidi
Keyword(s):  
Online Learning ◽  
Teaching And Learning ◽  
Active Role ◽  
Study Data ◽  
Teacher’S Role ◽  
Quality Of Learning ◽  
Teachers And Students ◽  
Information And Communication ◽  
Teacher's Role

In the teaching and learning process, teachers are required to be able to carry out their role to the fullest as a motivator and initiator in an effort to maintain and at the same time increase the enthusiasm of students to learn. Especially in the Covid-19 pandemic situation which requires educational institutions to carry out online learning. This study aims to discuss the teacher's role as a motivator and the teacher's role as an initiator in improving the quality of student learning in online learning at Madrasah Ibtidaiyah Ma'arif Condro Jember. This research uses qualitative research methods and the type of research is a case study. Data collection techniques using observation, interviews and documentation. The validity of the data using source triangulation and technical triangulation. Meanwhile, data analysis uses data condensation, data presentation and verification/conclusion. The results of this study indicate: 1) The teacher's role as a motivator in improving the quality of learning in online learning, namely: providing opportunities for students to play an active role in learning, providing reinforcement, praise or verbal appreciation, teachers listening to students' concerns and wishes to bond. good relationship between teachers and students. 2) The role of the teacher as an initiator in improving the quality of learning in online learning, namely: utilizing information and communication technology such as Whatsapp, Facebook, Google Meet and Google Form. Keywords: Teacher Role; Quality of Learning; Online Learning Dalam proses belajar mengajar, guru dituntut untuk mampu melaksanakan perannya secara maksimal menjadi motivator dan inisiator dalam upaya menjaga dan sekaligus meningkatkan semangat belajar peserta didik. Terlebih dalam situasi pandemi Covid-19 yang menuntut lembaga pendidikan untuk melaksanakan pembelajaran secara Daring. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk membahas tentang peran guru sebagai motivator dan peran guru sebagai inisiator dalam meningkatan kualitas belajar peserta didik pada pembelajaran daring di Madrasah Ibtidaiyah Ma’arif Condro Jember. Penelitian ini menggunakan metode penelitian kualitatif dan jenis penelitiannya adalah studi kasus. Teknik pengumpulan data menggunakan observasi, wawancara dan dokumentasi. Keabsahan data menggunakan triangulasi sumber dan triangulasi teknik. Sedangkan analisis data menggunakan kondensasi data, penyajian data dan verifikasi/kesimpulan. Hasil penelitian ini menunjukkan: 1) Peran guru sebagai motivator dalam meningkatkan kualitas belajar pada pembelajaran daring yaitu: memberikan kesempatan kepada peserta didik untuk berperan aktif dalam pembelajaran, memberikan penguatan, pujian atau apresiasi secara verbal, guru mendengarkan keresahan dan keinginan peserta didik agar terjalin ikatan yang baik antara guru dan peserta didik. 2) Peran guru sebagai inisiator dalam meningkatkan kualitas belajar pada pembelajaran daring yaitu: memanfaatkan teknologi informasi dan komunikasi seperti Whatsapp, Facebook, Google Meet dan Google Form. Kata Kunci: Peran Guru; Kualitas Belajar; Pembelajaran Daring

scholarly journals Let’s Chat - A fresh take on the invaluable role of peer-to-peer conversation in student engagement, participation and inclusion

2017 ◽  
Vol 8 (2) ◽  
pp. 107-111
Author(s):  
Rosalind McFarlane ◽  
Marta Spes-Skrbis ◽  
Anne Taib
Keyword(s):  
Intercultural Communication ◽  
Sense Of Belonging ◽  
Teaching And Learning ◽  
Peer To Peer ◽  
Student Feedback ◽  
First Year ◽  
Spoken English ◽  
Current Trends ◽  
Peer Conversation

This session reports on Monash University’s recently developed Let’s Chat program, delivered at three campuses as a modularised, peer learning opportunity for students from first year to PhD. Involving 3,591 student participants and facilitators in 2015 and 2016, the program responds directly to student feedback and recommendations. Let’s Chat maximises opportunities for peer-to-peer interaction with the aim of increasing participants’ confidence and competence in spoken English and intercultural communication. Informed by current trends in student-centred and peer-assisted learning theory, TESOL and intercultural communication, Let’s Chat is quickly establishing itself as an effective approach to supporting student participation, engagement and sense of belonging in diverse teaching and learning contexts and communities. The session presents a snapshot of the genesis of the program; an evaluation of its implementation; and a summary of emerging outcomes. The session also engages participants in a conversation about how this model might be replicated in other settings.

scholarly journals The teacher’s main competencies in modern higher education

2019 ◽  
Vol 3 (I) ◽  
pp. 30-42
Author(s):  
Надія СМОЛІКЕВИЧ
Keyword(s):  
Higher Education ◽  
Professional Development ◽  
Social Constructivism ◽  
Teaching And Learning ◽  
Active Role ◽  
Teaching Staff ◽  
Creative Potential ◽  
Higher Education System ◽  
Professional Activities ◽  
Teachers And Students

The article has analyzed the problems of teaching and learning at a higher educational establishment, reveals the specifics of the teacher's professional activities, the components of his or her teaching skills and deals with the issue on the necessary competencies of the teacher to provide a favorable and successful learning environment for diverse students. The emphasis has been concentrated on the specifics of teaching, research and professional development of the teaching staff, etc. It has also been emphasized the importance of creating the appropriate conditions for the full realization of the creative potential of teachers, ensuring their professional development, etc. The important characteristics of a favorable university environment have been singled out. It has been noted that teachers and students should be free in scientific research, study, evaluation, accumulation of new knowledge and its understanding. The main tasks, professional abilities and responsibilities of teachers in the global educational environment have been identified in order to help recipients of academic services to succeed in the adaptation and academic process. The successful experience of the American centers of pedagogical skill has been described in order to borrow it by the higher education system of Ukraine to ensure the development of the professional and creative potential of the teaching staff of universities. The main competencies of teachers have been determined and described, because they are necessary for providing high-quality educational services based on the educational philosophy of social-constructivism and postmodernism, which support an active role of students, social interaction and diversity in the class.

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