Dear editor,
An English proverb says, ``Too many cooks spoil the broth''. It is dizzying that the presidential transition team comes up with surprising policies on English education almost every day.
I would like to make some suggestions regarding methods to develop communication ability in schools.
To begin, we need to reduce the number of chapters in current textbooks. By doing so, students and teachers can be relieved from the burden of learning and teaching of English. Students can have more time to practice easy expressions, naturally developing their communication ability. Teachers will also find enough time to plan how to improve speaking ability in the class.
Secondly, we must focus on one target. Students can speak easy English well in Singapore, Malaysia and Philippines. But why can't Korean students speak English better than those of the South East Asian countries? The answer is that we have been running after two rabbits at the same time in the past five decades.
Thirdly, we need to give teachers incentives, such as the chance to attend oversea language workshops for more than one year, or studying at universities TESOL programs for two years, in order for them to teach entire classes in English, If possible, the education ministry must sponsor teachers voluntarily attending workshops.
Fourthly, authorities should reward teachers who voluntarily offer demonstration classes and who co-teach with a plan for pure communication. Teachers have to try to lead class in an interesting and cheerful way.
Finally, local governments need to build a cooperative relationships with elementary and secondary schools to help students use English out of school.
A cooperative system is needed so that local governments and city halls can hire capable officials with a strong command of English who can provide an opportunity for students to speak English when they visit on official business.
I am sure that such a cooperative system will contribute to two goals; job-creation to counter youth unemployment and offering chances for English speaking for students.
Chung In-sung
Sanne Middle School
Namwon, South Jeolla Province