Vol. 4 Issue 15 – Research Paper: ‘Evaluation of the English Language Teacher Education Program in Turkey’ by Ali Karakas

The article reports on an evaluative review of the current English Education Program in Turkey by focusing on both strengths and weaknesses identified through the analysis of the program based on the related theories, models and previous empirical research and comparison of the present program with the preceding English language teacher education program. The research paper shows that the program has more weaknesses than the strengths it does. It was seen that pedagogical and theory components are quite well covered. Yet, there are some weaknesses, as well, which can be summarized as being out-of-date, less practically-oriented, and lack of culture specific courses within the program. Consequently, a number of suggestions are offered to the stakeholders in the implications of the critical evaluation. In closing, the study stresses the importance of systematic evaluation for educating and training highly qualified English language teachers and successful foreign language education.

Continue ReadingVol. 4 Issue 15 – Research Paper: ‘Evaluation of the English Language Teacher Education Program in Turkey’ by Ali Karakas

ELTWeekly Vol. 4 Issue 14

ELTWeekly Vol. 4 Issue#14 | April 2, 2012 | ISSN 0975-3036 Video: Using Google for Search and Research Book Of The Week: ‘Effective Reading’ by Amanda French, Chris Gough, Jackie McAvoy…

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Vol. 4 Issue 14 – Research Paper: ‘Online Forums: Forums for ESL Learner’s Academic Discussion and Collaboration’ by Amlanjyoti Sengupta

The influence of computer technology has permeated into all facets of our lives, including academic settings. In the field of language education, a great deal of emphasis has been paid on online learning. There are of course, sufficient compelling causes for incorporating the online platform for language study. The traditional English classroom provides a forum to the learners where English study is time-bound and where there is hardly any room for classroom discussion and collaborative activity. Online forums have made it possible for language learners to integrate independent language learning experiences with provisions for interaction and collaboration. The paper highlights the pedagogical importance of online forums which can be effectively used to maximize ESL learners’ language performance through academic discussions and collaboration.

Continue ReadingVol. 4 Issue 14 – Research Paper: ‘Online Forums: Forums for ESL Learner’s Academic Discussion and Collaboration’ by Amlanjyoti Sengupta