[Research Proposal] An Assessment: Status of English Language in UAE

Introduction

Language has been a part of each nation enabling people to communicate systematically through sounds and conventional symbols. Language embodies our cultural identity and heritage. The language we use speaks of our whole persona, our roots and origin. Language makes it possible for us to reach out to others, express our diverse ideas, build interpersonal relations, shape our thoughts, explore our customs and construct laws. However, influences from other countries have brought many changes to other. Some old customs have to be transformed and people adapt to these changes and learn other practices, including the language they speak. Thus, a linguistic repertoire is created wherein a set of language varieties is demonstrated in the speaking and writing patterns of a certain speech community.

The internationalization and globalization processes affect the language development of people in all places. It is considered that the Arab countries need to develop their English proficiency in order to get along with the latest global trends. Learning second language is very important in contemporary setting. How important learning English as second language among Arabs? What are the challenges faced by the teachers and students alike? How can English proficiency be improved and be effective?

Many teachers feel that they may have to reassess their role in the advent of the use of software in the classroom. Teachers now find that they have more time to assist learners on an individual basis. As it is very rare to find a group of learners who share exactly the same interests and the same level of proficiency, most software programs are designed to allow learners to work at their own pace and to take control of their own learning. The teacher is required to be familiar with the content of the software program so that they can direct the learner most effectively but this is a two way process as the learner often tells the teacher what they like and dislike about the software programs. This method is effective for the development of one’s skills abilities and communicative competence because this allows for more participation. Literature shows that a motivated and enthusiastic student is more likely to acquire knowledge than those who are not. Moreover, as this method requires group competition, the strategic competence of students is developed. Computer-based methods, as illustrated in research, are applicable and effective to children and adult. Other countries have also adopted the method. The methods of teaching the English language vary. Like any other language learning process, it is always the role of the teacher to come up with the best teaching strategies for the students to achieve maximum learning. Using leadership in the classroom setting, English language improvement will be more visible.

Objectives

This research study will look into the case of Arab teachers and students in 3 identified setting. It will identify the current condition of English instruction in the country. Using varied literatures and other sources of data and information, this study intends to come up with an evaluation report of the present English language learning processes and development if any. Also, it will look into the importance of learning the English language, the challenges faced by teachers and students alike, and several policy recommendations for improvement and effectiveness.

Statement of the Problem

These questions are sought to be answered:

1. What is the current condition of learning English language in the country?

2. Using the identified case, what is the importance of learning English language?

3. What is/are the challenge(s) faced by teachers and students?

4. How can it be improved and be effective?

Methodology

This research study will use case study approach. There will be two cases: on the aspect of the teachers and on the aspects of the student. Interview on English teachers is the main source of information for the case of the teachers. For the students, a standardized attitude questionnaire will be used to explore their English proficiency level. It can also be a test questionnaire that will be given into three periods. All results are to be compared from the first up to the third test.

English teachers are asked with semi-structured questions that range on the performance of their students, strengths and weaknesses, opportunities and threats, and the challenges or difficulties seen on the teaching process as well as on the learning process of the students. The research questions are to be answered based on the result of the case study and are supported by relevant literatures that are critically reviewed by the researcher.

Analysis of variance (ANOVA) can be used in comparing the results of the tests given to the students. The result can be used to answer the same research problems.