English Language Teaching in Saudi Arabia: A Book Review (Published)
English Language Teaching in Saudi Arabia: An Introduction is a book by Yousif A. N. Alshumaimeri published in 2019 in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. The first part of the book provides an overview of the study of the English language. The second part analyses the various approaches and teaching methods used in English language instruction. At the end of each chapter, discussion activities for teachers and students are outlined. English is currently being taught in most public learning institutions worldwide. Despite this, there are not enough books available to assist international student teachers from various backgrounds and cultures with different first languages who are studying to be English teachers. Alshumaimeri’s book identifies several methods and approaches that can be used when teaching English, discusses their advantages and disadvantages and describes the roles of teachers and students in these methods. While it targets students of English, this book provides a rich history of teaching English as a foreign language in Saudi Arabia. These factors make the book relevant for student teachers of English.
Keywords: EFL, English language teaching, Saudi Arabia, Teacher Education, Teaching Methods, Undergraduate Students
Using Mixed Strategies and Techniques to Enrich and Enhance L2 Vocabulary Learning (Published)
Vocabulary plays an important role in any language. However, learning vocabulary is one of the challenges that learners face during the process of second language learning. This research paper aims to enrich teachers’ knowledge and improve their teaching methods in the area of vocabulary instruction. First, it discusses the issues that learners have in L2 vocabulary learning in order to help teachers understand these issues and follow the principles that will help them to develop effective vocabulary instruction. In addition, this paper reviews the current research on the most effective teaching strategies and techniques for L2 vocabulary learning and teaching. The results of the study emphasize the importance of vocabulary instruction on vocabulary learning. Therefore, teachers should evolve their vocabulary instruction to be more effective which will affect positively on their learners’ vocabulary development. In addition, this paper familiarizes teachers with various useful teaching methods and techniques to enhance vocabulary teaching and learning processes.
Citation: Asma AlRashidi (2021) Using Mixed Strategies and Techniques to Enrich and Enhance L2 Vocabulary Learning, International Journal of English Language Teaching, Vol.9, No.4, pp.36-46
Keywords: Issues, L2 vocabulary learning, Teaching Methods, Techniques, vocabulary instruction
INVESTIGATING ENGLISH MAJOR STUDENTS’ ATTITUDES TOWARDS THE EFFICIENCY OF THE “CONVERSATION” COURSE (Published)
In the scope of teaching English as a foreign language, and more specifically teaching speaking, this study reflects the attitudes and anticipations English language teachers-to-be have towards the “Conversation Course” provided by the College of Basic Education in Kuwait. The study is based on the analysis of 106 questionnaires distributed to first year college students registered in the conversation class at the time of the study. In addition, 28 students were interviewed to observe vividly their expectations from the conversation course. Both, the questionnaire and the interviews, aimed at knowing how the students perceived the conversation class at the end of the semester. The study shows that the majority of students feel that they have benefited from the conversation class in different domains; yet, many required a clearer outline of the course. Between their fondness for the conversation course and confusion of its aims, English language students understand their need for the course, and perhaps an extra advanced one too.
Keywords: EFL, English Language, Four Skills, Speaking, Teaching Methods