Sabtu, 02 Oktober 2010 Teaching Conceptions Diposting oleh an.pane di 22.09

This is the first article in this blog. As an introduction about language teaching methodologies, I will discuss four conceptions in teaching language that i have learned.

Science-Research Conceptions:

These conceptions emphasize research and experimentation for effective teaching. One example of these conceptions is doing what effective teachers do. Effective teachers are able to make the students accomplish the task well. A teacher can adapt other teacher's strategies or methods in teaching but i think it is not always appropriate for all situations or classes. Sometimes, a teacher finds some different needs in her/his class based on the students she/he teaches.

Theory-Philosophy Conceptions:

They are conceptions which emphasize understanding the theories and principles. In communicative language teaching, selecting materials and tasks based on the theories are used. Sometimes, it does not need evidence or verifications.Teachers who use these conceptions have to monitor whether the way they teach match with the theory or not. Another example of these conceptions is silent way. It does not really come from linguistic theory but it is based on a belief how learning takes place in adults. Overall, I think theory-philosophy conceptions can be used as a basic knowledge for teaching as long as teachers monitor whether it is appropriate for the class or not. Silent way is also good to attract students' attention and their willingness to engage in learning but I think it is hard enough if the class is a big one. Monitoring all students' comprehension is difficult if the teacher uses this method for whole section.

Values-Based Conceptions:

Values-based conceptions describe how important the values element in teaching is. Two examples of these conceptions are humanistic approach and reflective teaching approach. Humanistic approach shows the development of human values and build sensitivity to human emotions. It makes students learn subjects not only on the surface. They can know that many factors may give influence in language styles or development. How about reflective teaching? It is based on a belief that teachers can improve their skill in teaching by reflecting to their own teaching experience. This is one of my favourite approaches because it gives a chance for teachers to see what they have to improve in the way they teach. Considering that being a teacher is a commitment to learn in a lifetime, it is good to know that there are many things that must be improved, including teaching skills.

Art-Craft Conceptions:

Art-craft conceptions emphasize teacher’s individual skill and personality in teaching. These conceptions point up a challenge for teachers to look at the situations and students’ needs. Here, teachers are free to decide which effective methods should be used in classes. When they realize that their students have different style in learning, they will contribute some teaching methods based on each student’s needs. That is why sticking to one method only may hinder teachers’ potential that will cause a problem for students’ comprehension about the materials given. I think these conceptions are good considering that not all students have the same learning style. That is why teachers have to be creative.

Well, I think combining some conceptions or approaches above is better than sticking to one conception only. What do you think about this? Which conceptions do you think the best for language teaching? :)