An investigation of quality teaching of English-Speaking civilization and culture

Abstract

The present research seeks to investigate quality teaching of English-speaking civilization and culture at the department of English studies of Biskra University. It attempts to probe quality teaching in regard to identify causes of student retention and disinterest especially in lectures. In order to investigate this problem, we set two hypotheses: 1. English as a Foreign Language teachers and students at Mohamed Khider of Biskra University may have different perceptions about effective university quality teaching. 2. Quality teaching of Englishspeaking civilization and culture at Mohamed Khider of Biskra University may not gain EFL students’ interest and engagement in learning. The participants involved in this study were ten EFL teachers and one hundred thirty students from the department of foreign languages, division of English at Mohamed Khider of Biskra University of the academic year 2012/2013. Questionnaires, classroom observation and semi-structured interviews were used as the data collection tools to assess the participants’ teaching and learning experiences of Englishspeaking civilization and culture. The results reveal EFL teachers and students perceive quality teaching differently. Teachers valued the professional qualities rather than other types of qualities that are related to personality, however, students expect their teachers to be knowledgeable in the subject matter, skillful in employing the effective teaching strategies and techniques that may engage them actively in learning, as well as professional in teaching in terms of personal appearance and organizational skills. The results reveal that Englishspeaking civilization and culture lectures at Biskra University do not raise EFL students’ interest and engagement. Lastly, the researcher recommends the collaboration of the university, teachers, and students which could lead to many improvements in quality teaching of English-speaking civilization and culture for EFL students.