A critical review on the suitability of the communicative language teaching methodology to teach english as a second language in the arts and science colleges in tamil nadu

Abstract

Communicative Language Teaching (CLT) is an approach that newlineemphasizes the engagement of learners in communication to develop their newlinecommunicative competence, specifying classroom interaction as a means to newlineachieve this end. It is learner centred in essence and allows for maximum newlineexpression for the students. It insists on the need for students to be involved in newlinethe process of using the language rather than learning for examination newlinepurposes. Authentic materials that encompassed real life exchanges, were newlinedrawn from diverse sources to be replicated in the classroom. newlineAn investigation of the rationale behind the use of CLT practices in newlinethe Arts and Science colleges in Tamil Nadu showed significant gaps between newlineteaching and learning. The outcome of the language activities used in classes newlineshowed itself to be far from being effective. The understanding of the CLT newlineprinciples on a surface level posed great challenges at several levels of newlineteaching and learning. This resulted in an imminent need for a change in newlineteaching methods in order to aid learners to transition into effective newlinepractitioners of the language.An indigenously developed teaching methodology that would suit newlinethe teaching-learning culture of the context, has been recommended to newlineaddress the impending need. Periodical pre-service and in-service teacher newlinetraining, on a needs-based analysis, is suggested, to benefit the teachers and newlinelearners alike. newline newline