English Speakware runs Communicative English Course in Kerala both in its institute and in educational institutions in an innovative way. Communicative English in English Lab is a computer based audio-visual learning aid to acquire English speaking skill in a short span of time. Finding interaction the ideal way of language learning, the learners get language exposure to interact with other learners or the teacher. Considering the strength of vocabulary, grammar range and pronunciation, each class has got its own level. The details of the course are as follows.
The course involves the language development of students taking into consideration their psycho linguistic environment. Therefore, we have designed a system that is in tune with Indian sociology and epistemology where the learners get ample exposure to language when literature is made use of teaching language. The curiosity of the learners is aroused to such an extent that the natural involvement is possible and the same has been universally accepted.
Most of the professionals need Communicative English to get through interview, group discussion, debate, speech, seminar etc. Therefore, fostering language professionalism is considered the pivot on which the entire learning activities revolve.
The basic idea in teaching Communicative English is to teach language functions. Learners can use language in all situations simple and complex, if they have mastery over speech functions and a fair grip over English vocabulary. Communicative functions are taught through extensive and intensive drilling since the modern method emphasizes the need of role play activities based on language functions to be played in different situations. The skill of Spoken English and pronunciation can be substantially improved through language lab.
The learners' grouping and grading are carried out to further the feasibility of teaching and to administer a common mode of evaluation. They give the learners confidence and remove their shyness and inhibition to speak the international language. The grouping of learners is done giving them a preliminary test and questionnaire. The proposition is that the learners are the best judge of their own performance. It also stresses the value of learner centred method in teaching rather than the conventional teacher centred method. The teaching methodology is absolutely application oriented and new and in no way an enhancement of the traditional approach.
All the materials are research based and the replica of language in use and applied linguistics. The final stage of teaching is valuation that shows the overall language skills and competence of the learners. A performance sheet with all language specifications is given to students to measure their achievement. Various types of tests are given, the performance is valued and grades are awarded on a multi point scale. The valuation is carried out observing the behavioral changes of learners while they use the language.
C.R. RADHAKRISHNAN
MA [Economics], MA [English], BEd. [English]
Head of the Department Material Production and Research and Development
The course director is an expert English language educator who has a few books to his credit. He has exposure to the syllabi of different Indian states. Syllabus design, teacher development, material production and language research are his areas of interest.