The use of authentic materials is a major preoccupation in English language teaching (ELT). Teachers often try to ensure their students use authentic materials; publishers proclaim proudly that their materials are authentic. The assumption, of course, is that authentic materials are to be preferred over other types of materials. The purpose of this article is to explore the use of authentic materials in ELT. I begin with a brief discussion of the origins of our field’s present preoccupation with such materials. This is followed by an examination of the reasons why authentic materials are preferred. I then discuss the problems with using authentic materials, and suggest that ‘appropriateness’ should be the primary consideration.
목차
THE CULT OF AUTHENTIC MATERIALS The Origins of the Cult WHY USE AUTHETIC MATERIALS? Affect Prepare Students for the ‘Real’ World The Alternative is Terrible PROBLEMS WITH AUTHENTIC MATERIALS Definitions Comprehensibility APPROPRIATENESS Language Ability Variety of English Activities, Tasks & Exercises CONCLUSION THE AUTHOR REFERENCES
저자
Richard R. Day [ University of Hawaii, United States ]
The goals of Asia TEFL are to promote scholarship, disseminate information, and facilitate cross-cultural understanding among persons concerned with the teaching and learning of English in Asia. In order to accomplish this, Asia TEFL will pursue the following goals:
1. To link ELT professionals in joint research on issues and concerns regarding English teaching and learning in the Asian context.
2. To publish an academic journal, The Asia TEFL Journal, as an internationally recognized journal in the field of English language teaching.
3. To host conferences and seminars addressing important issues concerning ELT in Asia.
4. To develop proficiency guidelines and assessment methods designed for the needs of the Asian context.
5. To develop programs for Asian learners and teachers of English to build their English language proficiency and cultural understanding and provide them with the skills required to be efficient English teaching professionals.