The language of instruction is relevant in education. The facility with the teacher and the pupils can communicate, more than any other factor, determines the effectiveness of the educative process.
Teachers have a crucial role in the improvement of English as language of instruction. Its success largely depends on them. As facilitators of learning, they possess qualities of a good communication arts teacher. A good academic preparation gives a sense of confidence and facilities creative thinking in the teachers. They must be competent users of the language themselves trying always to speak in English throughout their lessons. For pupils will best learn language if it is frequently heard. This means that teachers must be good models.
Attitude, just like in any other undertaking, also matters. A positive attitude in its implementation as medium of instruction is very important. Mentors must be interested in the language for interest begets interest. If a teacher hates teaching English, what would you expect the feelings of her pupils to be in learning the language? The teachers must avoid using the vernacular and any form of translation but instead provide help through gestures, mime, or actions.
Practice makes perfect. Requiring the pupils to speak in English inside the classroom would polish their oral skills. Teachers effectively convey the idea that reading is enjoyable and that books are sources of enjoyment as well as knowledge is also beneficial. Having a reading corner in every classroom with various sorts of reading material would develop love for reading among pupils. Once they have developed the habit of reading, they will read to learn as they go on with their studies and eventually become fully literate persons.
Education is a continuous process. Teachers must be open-minded with regards to attending seminars and trainings on various methods, approaches, and strategies in teaching especially communications arts. In addition to this, they must keep themselves aware of what is happening around by reading newspapers, books, and professional magazines so their previous knowledge would not be stale. Likewise, they would be able to convey to their pupils the ideas which they want to impart effectively and meaningfully if they can speak English fluently.
Teachers play a significant role in the improvement of English as medium of instructions. Being the direct implementers, their role cannot be underestimated.
By: Victoria D. Ramos | T-II | A.G. Llamas Elementary School
