Common Struggles in Learning English for Asian Students

 

Nowadays, it is very common for schools to teach students English and for parents to enroll their kids to language schools or even hire private tutors to teach their children English. However, it is not a secret that oftentimes, even though these children have learnt English since young age, they still can't communicate well. This problem then lead to one word, 'Why?'

To find the reasons behind it, we need to know which part of Asia are your students. In some countries like Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore and The Philippines people communicate in their local languages. However, English language learners from these countries have one benefit that may outperform their English skills than other ESL students, their local languages use Latin alphabets. Furthermore, English is considered as a second language in Malaysia, Singapore, the Philippines and widely spoken in some big cities in Indonesia. 

Aside of their local language, there are some things that might be the reasons why Asian students still struggle in learning English, even though they have learnt English in their entire life. 

1. The Methods are not Practical

When I was a kid, I went to national schools* that were not affiliated with international curriculum at all. Back then, my English teachers taught us by translating word-per-word. Additionally, when we learnt about grammars, we needed to memorize all formulas for each grammar without fully grasping the function of all grammars. In contrast, when I saw the books of my students who went to international schools, their books and the methods their teachers use were practical and applicable to every situation, including daily conversation. 

*Indonesia has 3 types of schools, national, bilingual and international schools. National schools follow national curriculum and usually have English only as an additional lesson. 

2. Lack of Practise

"The best way to learn a language is by speaking it."

Everyone agrees that learning a language is a never ending progress that needs commitment to learn and time to practise. Also, it has been proven that learners to allocate their time to speak their new language will have a better progress than those who don't. Unluckily, although it holds true, English language learners may not be surrounded by people who can support their learning progress in practising their speaking skill and/or writing skills.  

3. Afraid of Making Mistakes

When we're talking about learning, we can't set ourselves apart from mistakes. It is important to be in a safe learning environment when learning a language, especially English. However, there were times when learning environment itself is not safe that discourage learners. Hence, in Pebble Up, you are encourage to learn from your mistakes. Additionally, I want students to get the best of their time when learning. 

Do you acknowledge your own struggles? Share them with me and we can find the solutions together! 😀

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