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Overcoming Barriers in Cambodian High School English Teaching
The study titled “Challenges of Teaching English as an Additional Language in High Schools in Cambodia” investigates the hurdles faced by English teachers in four Cambodian public high schools. The findings indicate that classrooms with 40 to 60 students are often overcrowded, making it challenging to implement interactive and communicative language teaching methods. Non-movable classroom furniture further complicates group activities and flexible teaching practices. Additionally, inadequate electricity and infrastructure exacerbate the already difficult learning environment. Teachers report that their schools lack experienced management teams that are trained in English Language Teaching (ELT), leading to poor leadership and limited support for professional development. This lack of administrative expertise contributes to insufficient attention to teacher salaries, benefits, and other staff development opportunities, resulting in low motivation among teaching staff.
The curriculum used in Cambodian public schools is outdated and does not reflect the needs of learners or current trends in ELT. Textbooks, many of which have been in use since 1997, focus heavily on reading skills and are not aligned with contemporary teaching methodologies. The lack of sufficient resources, such as instructional materials, language labs, and updated textbooks, hampers effective English language teaching. The study also found that while most teachers believe in the importance of learning English for students’ future success, they often lack opportunities for professional development, training, and support from professional organizations. The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic has further complicated the situation, with schools closing for nearly a year and teachers struggling to adapt to online teaching. The study concludes with recommendations for the Cambodian government to invest more in education by providing additional funds, facilities, and teaching resources and revising the curriculum to meet learners’ needs and current trends in ELT. Improved support for teachers through enhanced professional development and better salaries is also recommended.
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This discussion was modified 8 months ago by
EFL CAFE.
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This discussion was modified 8 months ago by
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