In Search of Quality English Teaching in Nepal: Narratives, Reflections and Descriptors

Abstract

The aim of this paper is to analyze Nepali English teachers’ narrations and reflections about good English language teaching which they most enjoyed and affected their career choices. The present paper adopted narrative inquiry as a research design. The study was conducted with five participants who unfolded stories and memoirs on how they learned English. The participants shared their experiences which left indelible marks on their minds. The data were analyzed thematically in such a way that their conceptions of quality English teaching were reflected. The study indicated that teachers are instrumental in enabling learning, and they succeed most when they exhibit the behaviors that lead to the desired learning outcomes, such as excellent grades, favorable attitudes toward learning, and improved learning abilities. Good teaching is not a static, stereotyped activity that can only be accomplished by using instructional techniques. Quality English language teaching cannot be imagined without quality English teachers who are required to possess competencies like strong subject-matter expertise, pedagogical skills, contextual knowledge, passion, and the capacity to foster a friendly learning atmosphere so that they can maximize learning and are better able to accomplish increased learning. Thus, quality English language teaching places learners at the center of the learning process.