Teaching English in Multinational Groups

1. Teaching English in Multinational Groups Kosztasz Panajotu MLTC Budapest

2. Content of presentation • Introduction • Special features of multinational groups • Effects of special features • Ways of problem management

3. Introduction • MLTC – 10 years of experience • 6 – 14 different nations represented • Students from ex-WP states and Balkans countries • Teaching general AND military English • Limited timeframe • Highly qualified teaching staff

4. Special features of multinational groups 1 • Common language – English • Effects: slow progress in low-level groups; • Ways to manage: Ts with some knowledge of „majority language” (Russian)

5. Special features of multinational groups 2 • Differences in levels due to various exam systems • Effects: heterogeneous groups • Ways to manage: • Thorough pre-course assessment • Fine tuning phase in weeks 1-2

6. Special features of multinational groups 3 • Different cultural background • Effects: difficult common conversation topics in General English course books Body language problems • Ways to manage: - create an „own” English culture during course • use for generating information gap • special attention to the use of gestures

7. Special features of multinational groups 4 • Political conflicts at home • Effects: sensitive class composition; taboo topics • Ways to manage: • Careful teaching • Maintaining a delicate balance • „psychologist” teachers

8. Special features of multinational groups 5 • Different structures of armed forces • Effects: difficultieswith teaching military terminology • Ways to manage: - detailed introduction to the issue with focus on „elementary” issues • no procedures taught! (except special courses) • use for generating information gap

9. Special features of multinational groups 6 • Lack of IT background • Effects: Internet-based research hard or impossible • Ways to manage: • additional IT classes (takes time but worth)

10. Special features of multinational groups 7 • Different perception of T’s role • Effects:Passive attitude, expecting ready-made materials • Ways to manage: • Gradual involvement in pair- and groupwork activities • Making Ss aware of progress

11. Conclusion • Related difficulties can be not much bigger than in single-nation groups • Many advantages and disadvantages • Ts with special and complementary preparation can manage disadvantages and exploit adv-ges • Ts MUST have special preparation • Significant part of teaching is other than linguistic work

12. Ladies and gentlemen, thank you for your kind attention. Have you got any questions?