The Direct Method in English Language Instruction for Primary School Students in Santarém-PA: An Experience of TESOL Undergraduates

Abstract

The Direct Method, a pedagogical approach for teaching additional languages through immersion, emphasizes oral interaction and everyday language usage to facilitate language acquisition. This method discourages reliance on translation and minimizes emphasis on grammatical rules. However, a fundamental question arises about the effectiveness of TESOL programmes in non-English dominant countries in equipping prospective teachers to adopt a monolingual approach. This paper explores the results of a case study aimed at understanding the experiences of two TESOL degree candidates from a university in Northern Brazil. They participated in an outreach project employing the Direct Method to teach English to Year 1 students on the outskirts of Santarém-PA. Data, gathered through proficiency assessments, interviews, and video recordings, were analysed using Content Analysis and video analysis principles in qualitative research. The results revealed challenges faced by the participants due to limited pedagogical knowledge but also unveiled adaptive strategies, collaborative work practices, introspection, and an acknowledgment of the importance of integrating elements from students’ physical and social contexts into lessons. Despite challenges, the study underscores the beneficial potential and viability of the Direct Method in non-English dominant contexts, advocating for its critical consideration and adaptation within TESOL programmes.