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information from Dr. Joo-Kyung Park (Honam University, Republic
of Korea)Korea -
information from Dr. Joo-Kyung Park (Honam University, Republic
of Korea)
English has been an extra subject since 1981 and a regular subject for elementary school students from the third grade since 1997. From this year, English is taught to 3rd and 4th graders once a week and 5th and 6th graders twice a week. From this year, one CD-Rom based coursebook has replaced 16 different books. The government has invested heavily in equipment and new buildings and class sizes have been reduced.
How are teachers trained?
There is use of pre-service and in-service programmes. On-line training is being developed.
What are the good points?
The style and approach of teaching English has influenced other lessons. There is strong use of audio and video materials to help supplement teachers' own English skills.
What are the problems?
Some elementary school teachers lack confidence in their own English and their English teaching skills. Secondary school teachers are also used but this can cause resentment.