English Education at the Higher Secondary Level in Bangladesh: Challenges and Considerations

A. F. M. Moshiur Rahman, Md. Atik Ullah, Samiul Islam, Md. Milon, Abu Hasan, Md. Sirajul Islam & Md. Tarekul Islam Khan

Oct-Nov-Dec

Abstract
English is taught as a mandatory subject at the higher secondary level in Bangladesh though the outcome is not up to the mark yet. The current study aimed at investigating the present scenario of English education at the higher secondary level in Bangladesh. Mixed method approach was used as the avenue of this study that included teachers’ in-depth interview, teachers questionnaire and classroom observation. It was found that though the core aim of the English education at the higher secondary level is to make the students efficient in using four language skills, the assessment system only focuses on reading and writing skills. So, it is a common scenario that the teachers does not make students’ practice English speaking and listening skills in the classroom. Findings of the study also showed that there are a number of challenges that both the teachers and students face regarding effective English education at this level including teaching method, class size, class duration, contents of the textbook, assessment system, classroom activities and so on. It was suggested that through ensuring proper methodology and classroom activities, assessment system, friendly classroom environment, sufficient teachers training and finally through the proper procedure of students’ need analysis the present situation of English education in Bangladesh could get improved.

Keyword: English Education, Higher Secondary Level, Challenges

Research Area: ELT

Country: Bangladesh

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