Managing Large Heterogeneous Second Language Classrooms: Problems with Teaching and Eclectic Solutions

Abstract

The increase in population and the demand to study for various purposes has immensely contributed to classroom population in India. The varied interest among learners, their social background, attitude, and abilities, are to be looked by teacher. Teacher cannot blindfold to these differences. Heterogeneous classrooms are inevitable in India, which stands for Unity in Diversity. The aim to address the mixed atmosphere where each student feels welcomed and accepted with his/her capabilities under one roof becomes a challenge to a teacher. Hence answering this phenomenon is essential. This paper is divided into three parts. The first part discusses, what is a large class and heterogeneous class in Indian conditions in relation to other developing and developed countries. In the second part, discusses about the elements of heterogeneity. The third part presents the methodology used for this study such as informal interviews, discussions among 44 teachers from five colleges who teach to a large heterogeneous class. The collected data was analysed, how teachers manage those problems in the large classes given to them. As a result, the researcher also has given solution to manage those problems with the Eclectic Approach.