Regional problems of foreign languages education (by the example of the Crimea)

Abstract

The article addresses the problem of foreign language education that is still very important in the country. The problem concerns teaching, learning, and improving foreign languages, from a starter level (development of basic skills such as speaking, reading, writing, listening) to a proficiency one (language-specific skills in translation studies and applied linguistics). The author aims to investigate the issue from different sides. To explode them, the author used data from official web site of the Russia Government, methodological guides, professional forums. The findings showed that laws prescribe the rights and duties of each participant in the educational process and officially all the fine points are considered. In accordance with legislative acts, every Crimean can learn several languages from early childhood. The law takes care to increase the level of teaching: it provides training of highly qualified teachers, guarantees technical assistance, equipment and material support and helps to develop exchange programs. However, there are certain difficulties with the implementation. Main reasons for this include poverty of educational institutions, weak academic mobility of students and teachers, ill-conceived exchange programs, low motivation, moral and material. Thus, in conclusion the author provides some recommendations. First, to work more carefully on the development of mandatory and additional training programs. Second, to become more responsible for issues of professional orientation. Third, to provide better teaching and learning conditions for teachers. Fourth, to expand education exchange programs.