Teaching English in the Soviet EraFormal English instruction in Soviet Uzbekistan began in 1932 after a Soviet declaration promoting the learning of foreign languages. Although many Uzbek students took ESL classes, English was hardly utilized outside of the classroom, as curriculums focused on grammar and translation with little regard for conversation or creative writing. English learned in Soviet school was typically unsuitable for real life situations, and served only to keep Soviet student and scholars up to date with western manuals of science and technology and works of literature.
Soviet ESL CurriculumDuring the Soviet era, English stood as one of the most popular foreign languages to learn despite the setbacks of insufficient teaching materials, inflexible and grammar-based curriculum, prohibition to travel to English-speaking countries, and limited contact with English speakers (Hasanova, 2016, p. 252-253).
Due to these severe restrictions, the development of a unique Uzbek English was significantly limited until Uzbekistan declared independence in 1990. |
|
Teaching English in Uzbekistan TodayAfter the fall of the USSR, English almost instantly became a sought-after language, as the new opportunities provided by the west largely required proficiency in English.
Improved audio-lingual methods of teaching were developed to replace the Soviet curriculum and better prepare students for speaking English in real life settings. New methods of communicative language teaching seek to prepare students with both "linguistic knowledge" and "communicative fluency." (Hasanova, 2008, 140). As of 2008, Uzbekistan has eighteen institutions to prepare English teachers. These institutions function in a similar fashion to American four year universities and prepare teachers to work at elementary and secondary schools. Sadly, these curriculum changes have only been partially applied to Uzbek schools due to insufficient funding and teacher support (Hasanova, 2008, 142). New Education Legislation
Your browser does not support viewing this document. Click here to download the document.
Your browser does not support viewing this document. Click here to download the document.
|
News Article Discussing Education Reform
Your browser does not support viewing this document. Click here to download the document.
Documents courtesy of David L. Chiesa
|