A scheme for training effective English Second Language medium of instruction teachers

Abstract

Effective second language medium of instruction refers to an instructional approach that differs from that of regular, first language content instruction or a language across the curriculum approach. This approach uses language teaching strategies in subjects other than the formal language classes, to promote both conceptual and language development in language learners. The purpose of this article is to suggest a scheme for training effective second language medium of instruction teachers in the South African context. In order to determine how teachers should be trained (both on in-service and pre-service level), the article proposes a profile of what can be construed as effective English second language medium of instruction (L2MI). It is then used as a template for identifying outcomes that need to be attained by L2MI teachers and for the design of a checklist that may be used for teacher training at inservice or pre-service level.

Keywords: English medium of instruction; language across the curriculum; teacher training

Journal for Language Teaching Vol. 39(2) 2005: 321-335