Education Theories

Education Theories

Introduction

Education, in broader terms is a tool through which one generation passes the knowledge gained to another upcoming generation (Hlebowitsh, 1997). This transformation of knowledge is achieved through different methods and is backed by different theories of knowledge.

Discussion

Consider some of the traditional and contemporary ESL teaching methods. Compare and contrast two methods of your choice

Some of the traditional methods for teaching English as a foreign language are the direct method and grammar translation method. The direct method aims to teach English entirely in the English language entirely. This method was first developed in France and Germany in the early 1900's. The mother tongue is not allowed to be used. Grammatical rules which are to be followed in English language are ignored; more emphasis is put on pronunciation of the language. English is taught in different phases in this method. In the introduction phase, only everyday vocabulary and sentences are taught. Whereas, in the intermediate phase, advanced vocabulary is taught with sentences. Critics of this method argue that, this method has a very limited scope and objective. Research showed that, many students were unable to speak English properly after taught English through this method (Dhonau, 2002).

Why is it more beneficial to integrate language and content instruction rather than teach them as isolated subjects? Provide research to support your response

Integration of English language and content instruction rather than teaching English language in isolation has been adopted widely. It is argued that this method of teaching is more effective and efficient. Integrating English language and content instruction creates value of English for students and builds interest in them to learn this language. It provides a meaningful basis for the students to learn and get a better understanding of the language. It also helps in the communal and cognitive development. However, learning ...