Current Challenges in English Language Learning in Turkish EFL Context
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to investigate the current challenges in
English language learning and teaching in Turkey from high and low
achievers’ perspective. The study was qualitative in nature and the
participants of the study were twenty-two students attending at various
departments of a state university in Turkey. In this study, the question
of “what were the challenges that you had while learning English?”
was asked to each participant and their responses were classified in
terms of overall ideas, language skills, method, approach, practice,
linguistic differences in two languages, personal differences, teacher,
material, family and environment. The results of the study suggest that
the objectives of English course should be realistic and be considered
as a whole from primary education to higher education. Teaching and
improving four language skills are supposed to be the focus of
attention rather than grammar-centred language teaching. English
courses should be designed as practice-based rather than theory-based.
In addition, foreign language teachers should take into consideration
the individual differences, learner characteristics and plan the
activities in this regard. Foreign language teachers should take inservice training and update their professionalism from time to time.
Finally, the materials such as course books, videos, and internet web
sites should be chosen carefully according to the students’ interest,
level and needs.
Keywords
foreign language education in Turkey,challenges in language learning,language learning difficulties
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