Transforming the Challenge of Working with a Mixed Proficiency Class into an Educational Advantage

    Research output: Contribution to conferenceAbstract

    Abstract

    Objectives. Working with mixed proficiency classes is considered to be a major challenge in TEFL (Teaching English as a Foreign Language). The present research focuses on teaching the English Sports and Fitness Terminology course. In this course, students have considerable fluctuations in their English proficiency levels. Apart from that, their age, knowledge and experiences in the chosen specialty differ as well. The goal of the present research is to develop a systematic approach to working with seemingly discrepant student groups.
    Methods. Both qualitative and quantitative research methods are employed through needs analysis questionnaires, class activities observation, test result analysis (79 students), and end-of-course surveys (50 students).
    Results. Bearing in mind that the aim of the TEFL course for Health Sports specialists is to enhance their communicative skills, the pivotal role is given to the vocational component, since the students' avid interest in their chosen specialty offers the common ground to foster group cohesion. Another essential course component is learners' autonomy and initiative which allows more proficient students to provide linguistic input whereas less linguistically proficient learners may be valuable vocational input providers. Thus, every participant makes a substantial contribution to the course. Furthermore, a wide variety of linguistic task types ensures the adaptability of the course teaching materials to students' needs.
    Conclusions. Although challenging, teaching a mixed proficiency class may offer a distinct advantage of involving all level learners in true-to-life meaningful communication. To gain this advantage, a well-structured learning environment with flexible teaching materials and use of learners' autonomy should be provided.

    Conference

    ConferenceRSU International Research Conference 2019
    Country/TerritoryLatvia
    CityRiga
    Period1/04/193/04/19
    OtherThe Conference will be held within the framework of RSU Research Week 2019.

    RSU starptautiskā konference "Zināšanas praksei" medicīnas un veselības aprūpes nozarē 2019.
    Internet address

    Field of Science*

    • 5.3 Educational sciences
    • 6.2 Languages and Literature

    Publication Type*

    • 3.4. Other publications in conference proceedings (including local)

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