Eclectic approach in english language teaching: A comprehensive study

Abstract

Teaching is a noble profession by which children are trained at primary level and secondary level and students are trained in colleges and universities at a higher level. Learning is a process by which students learn so many things to grow physically, mentally and morally. Teachers use various methods, approaches, strategies and techniques to teach their students at every level. When it comes to a second or a foreign language, particularly English, there are certain methods, approaches and techniques followed by teachers in English language classrooms. There are various teaching methods and approaches designed by constant evaluation and observations. Prominent among them are Grammar Translation, Method, Direct Method, Audio-Lingual Method and Communicative Language Teaching Approach (CLT) and also there are various techniques and strategies implemented by teachers to make English language learning flexible and attractive. Though teachers employ these methods, approaches and techniques in EL classrooms, still there is a gap between teacher and learner. Over the years, there was a demand for unifying approach to language teaching. The Eclectic approach is the solution and it is a method that integrates various approaches and methodologies in English language teaching. This approach depends on the aims of the lesson and the abilities of the learners. This research paper explores the advantages and disadvantages of the Eclectic approach in the teaching of English as a foreign language and also the popularity of this approach in ELT in the21st century is also discussed in a comprehensive way. This paper also examines various aspects of Eclectic approach and how they are useful for teachers in English language classrooms.