The Philippines is well-known as the best Asian country that speaks and use the English language proficiently compared with its neighboring Asian countries. However, there seems to be a decline in this status.  A need for stronger curriculum in teaching English among educators is urgent. Improving English for global competition especially with the birth of K-12 is needed to continuously ensure our graduates become truly world class and can compete in the global arena.

A need for increasing learning with the use of computer-assisted lessons; intensified teacher training; fast-tracked printing, and delivery of communicative texts and manuals; initiated seminar-workshops at all levels; providing opportunities for best teachers and resources to address English improvement needs of Filipino students; and conceptualize committees in improving teaching English.

Being proficient English speakers and writers without sacrificing Filipino historical heritage is a question that needs to be answered, however. While being globally competitive, Filipino learners should retain being able to use the English language the Filipino way.

So, how can this be done? Teachers need to find answer to this question. Who is the authority in assessin the quality of English language attainment of students from primary, secondary, tertiary, and graduate level? Do Filipino students today actually have  “deteriorating English” skills and is it really incurable?

This is one of the purposes in K-12. To help students today in learning the universal language better and once again, regain what Filipinos are well-known for, when it comes to being English communicators. Additional years, resources, and being ready for higher learning in universities are what K-12 can provide to them. Dedicated leadership, collaborative learning, qualified resource materials, and teacher confidence can help make English learning possible to young Filipino learners.

References;

Callahan, C. (2012). The 6 Perceptual Thinking Patterns: How Does Your Child Learn Best? Retrieved from http://www.education.com/download/article/109422/perceptual-thinking-patterns.pdf on  January 3, 2016.

Delacruz, E., Arnold, A., Kuo, A., & Parson, M. (2009).Globalism, art, and education. Reston, VA: National Art Education Association.

Gardner, H. (1993). Creating minds. New York: basic Books.  

By: Lovely D. Carlos