Exploring the Status of the Leaner-Centered Approach in Efl Classes: Grade 8 in Focus
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Date
2009-07
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Addis Ababa University
Abstract
This study was concerned with exploring the status of the leamer-centred approach in
EFL classes with particular reference to three selected primary schools in Addis Ababa,
namely:Kilinto, Lafto and Hizbawi Sera wit Primary Schools-Akaki Kaliti sub-city, Lafto
sub-city and Yeka sub-city respectively.
To achieve the set objective two survey questionnaires, one for teachers and one for
students, were used to survey participants about their responses. The students'
questionnaire was meant to examine whether they like to learn English individually, with
a partner, in small groups or in a large group. It also required them to identify the
methods frequently used in their English classes. The questionnaire also incorporated
issues related to teachers' approach towards error correction. Similarly, the teachers'
questionnaire included key areas that revolve around whether or not they employ the
suggested leamer-centred methods in their English classes. On top of this, teachers
were also asked to provide their views on the benefits of using specific active learning
methods.
In addition interviews were held with teachers and students. Accordingly, the semistructured
interview questions for teachers consisted of seven points, which dealt with
the methods that they used most of the time. Teachers were also inquired to express
their opinions on the challenges and the solutions for effectively and efficiently
implementing the leamer-centred approach in their own context. The interview
questions for students contained four points. They ranged from how they wanted to
learn English to what they suggest in order to improve their English out of class. In a
similar vein, focus group discussions were held with teachers and students. The focus
points of the discussions with teachers were on the applicability, challenges, bottlenecks
and solutions to this approach. Similarly, the students' focus group discussions
included the type of topics they prefer to learn in their English classes. Discussions
were also made with students on how they manage their own learning as part of their
learning strategies.
Quantitative and qualitative methods were employed to analyze the results. The major
findings showed that some of the challenges in effectively and efficiently implementing
the leamer-centred approach in primary schools are:
i) large class size
ii) lack of awareness
iii) lack of training
ivY lack of support from stakeholders
v) lack of self-motivation
Finally, the recommendations were made based upon the conclusions of the finding.
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Keywords
Exploring the Status of the Leaner-Centered