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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