Traditional Vs Modern English Language Teaching Methods: Study Based on a Survey

Abstract

The study compares traditional and modern English language teaching methods and examines the prevalence and adoption of these methods by English language teachers. The sample consists of 100 English language teachers. The researchers use OLS regression, binary logistic regression and structural equation modelling to establish an association between adopting a particular language teaching method and the characteristics of the language teachers. Results indicate that experienced teachers prefer the social learning method, while less experienced teachers advocate the bilingual, experiential, and listening and observation methods. There are gender differences in accepting these language teaching methods. Female language teachers show an inclination towards the listening and observation method, whereas male teachers ardently favour the bilingual and experiential methods. Regression analysis reveals a higher probability of adoption of bilingual translation methods by non-English educational background teachers. Experienced teachers adopt the Social Learning Method, while less experienced teachers prefer experiential learning and bilingual translation methods more. Results of the path analysis using structural equation modelling indicate that the gender of the teachers mediates their educational background in the adoption of the particular language teaching method.