CATC English Language Challenges

Quentin DerrickMA TESOL & FLT, IDLTM, BA Ed, Cert IV Workplace Training and Assessment, IELTS Speaking Examiner, Cambridge Oral Examiner (Starters, Movers, Flyers, KET, PET, FCE)

Introduction‘There is little question that English is the most widely taught, read, and spoken language that the world has ever known’ (Kachru 2001)

‘English is a global language’ (Maley 2011)

Observations

•The entire CATC is delivered in English•English is a foreign language for most

participants•Currently there is no mechanism to

determine English language levels of both students or trainers

•Currently no entry level guidelines for English language to be able to undertake delivery or participation in training

Challenges

•English language content may be challenging for many trainees

•English language content and delivery in English may be challenging for trainers

•Trainers may not be experienced in modern teaching methodology: CLT, Test Teach Test, Guided Discovery

•How to test English language proficiency of trainers and trainees quickly, accurately and affordably?

Risks

•Trainees not competent in skills areas due to low level English language proficiency

•Trainers unable to deliver units effectively•Trainees with mixed English language

abilities in classes – extremely challenging for trainers and potentially frustrating or a “paralysing” experience for trainees

•Not meeting desired outcomes of the curriculum

Suggestions•Develop English language placement test

for CATC•Develop teacher trainer support course for

English language trainers• Investigate feasibility of test centres or

other alternatives•Develop entry level Hospitality and Tourism

English language courses•Set up a quality assurance/ongoing support

mechanism for English language delivery

Questions

•Email: quentin.derrick@gmail.com