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TESL 0100 Unit 2: Classroom Around the World



Unit 2: Classrooms Around the World



            English is a universal language.  You may go to any country in the world and you will eventually find someone who can speak English and be able to communicate. It has become one of the essential languages for global trade. Sadly, not all countries offer English language as part of their learning curriculum. In the Philippines, we learn English from the moment we start school.  Most of our subjects are taught in English and almost all modes of instructions are done in English. 

            Japanese value their language and use it very effectively.  They learn English only when they wish to. The Japan Exchange and Teaching Programme [1](JET) aims to enhance foreign language education, and promote international exchange concerning the promotion of mutual understanding between nations. JET is a Japanese government initiative that brings college (university) graduates – mostly native speakers of English – to Japan as Assistant Language Teachers (ALTs) and Sports Education Advisors (SEAs) in Japanese kindergartens, elementary, junior high and high schools or as Coordinators for International Relations (CIRs) in local governments and boards of education. The focus of the programme is on English language learning and teaching, so about 90% of the participants on the programme are ALTs.

            In Korea, I found two types of programs: English Program in Korea (EPIK) and Teach and Learn in Korea (TaLK). EPIK[2] teachers assist Korean teachers with their English classess, and/or jointly conduct English classes with Korean teachers, and/or extracurricular activities or English camps. Teachers are also expected to conduct English conversation classes for Korean students and teachers.  The TaLK[3] program is designed by the South Korean Government to award current undergraduates and recent University graduates with the opportunity to contribute their English speaking abilities and transition this ability into the skill of becoming an international English teacher. Prospective applicants must be a graduate or current undergraduate students with at least 2 years of academic completion from an accredited post-secondary institution, as well as hold current citizenship from one of these following major English-speaking nations: U.S., Canada, U.K., Ireland, South Africa, Australia, and New Zealand.  

            There are also other ways of learning English offered in a different way. International Language Homestays (ILH)[4] offers English language learning through home stay experience. You will experience to stay in your teacher’s own home and participate in their daily family life immerses you fully in the language you are learning.  Language practice continues throughout the day: during meals, on trips and when enjoying activities with your hosts.  The host family is chosen with your interests in mind, and diet or special requests are taken into consideration. ILH offers this service in England, Scotland, Ireland, Malta, France, Spain, Portugal, Italy, USA, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, and South Africa.
                Classrooms around the world may differ culturally, economically and socially but it always ends the same with one thing in mind, English language is thought all over the world because it is an essential skill for communication anywhere around the globe. ESL/EFL is an essential competence based on fluency in this generation.    

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