In English-dominant countries, non-native speakers usually encounter two educational approaches.
These are bilingual education and English as a Second Language (ESL). These methods aim to support students in academic settings but vary in approaches and objectives. If English is your second language but you still get confused about terminology, this article will explain the differences between these language learning options with benefits and challenges.
What is ESL Education?
ESL classrooms include students from various backgrounds, cultures, and languages. However, English is the sole language used for instruction. ESL teachers do not need to be bilingual; knowing English is enough. The main idea behind ESL education is that students learn English faster when they are surrounded by it. ESL learners learn to read, write, and speak English through immersion, despite receiving support. In some ESL classes, speaking other languages may not be allowed to encourage English use.
There are different types of ESL programs, and one popular form is the pull-out model. Here, students leave their regular classes to receive ESL instruction, either in groups or one-on-one. Sometimes, there is confusion between ESL and ELL students (English Language Learners). ELL includes all English learners. However, the push-in model has ESL teachers teaching English learners in regular classes.
ESL education can produce proficient English speakers. Relying solely on English might make it tough for students to understand complex concepts. Teachers play an essential role in ESL, which is a part of the e-learning experience.
What is the Approach to ESL Education?
Direct Method
In the direct method, all teaching happens in the language being learned. No translations are allowed, and speaking is emphasized over grammar. This method is student-centered and encourages natural language learning. Teachers correct mistakes immediately and praise correct language usage. It is often called the “natural approach” because students are supposed to learn instinctively. This approach is common in online English teaching and online collaborative learning, where teachers must speak only in English for an immersive experience.
Communicative Language Teaching (CLT)
Communicative language teaching (CLT) is the top choice among ESL teaching methods nowadays. It prioritizes students’ communication skills in everyday situations. This approach helps students learn to ask for things, agree to offers, and share thoughts. CLT focuses on practical tasks and problem-solving, prioritizing fluent speaking over perfect grammar.
Task-/project-/inquiry-based learning
This teaching method for ESL learners is often linked to CLT. However, it strongly promotes students’ independence and uniqueness. Known as inquiry-based learning, it is gaining popularity worldwide in schools. Students ask questions and find solutions, with teachers guiding instead of lecturing. This approach is thought to increase student engagement in assignments and projects.
An eclectic approach
Many educators select from a range of humanistic and communicative approaches, such as TPR and the direct method or CLT. They mix teaching strategies for ESL students, selecting what works best for each student. Overall, there is no universal method that fits all. Each group of learners has different styles and preferences. Thus, it is beneficial for teachers to begin with a needs assessment to determine which method to use.
Benefits of ESL Education
Personal Identity
In a well-organized ESL class led by a teacher who is understanding and engaging, the focus is on students’ individual identities. There is a sense of satisfaction in being able to speak the language of one’s culture and background. When an ESL class teaches both academic and social English, it helps them build a sense of historical heritage and cultural belonging. It also maintains the students’ fluency in their native languages.
Community and Family Connections
In areas where multiple languages are spoken, it is crucial to preserve a student’s native language. ESL helps you talk with native-speaking friends and family around you. It also enables reaching out to those who speak only English.
Academic Achievement
Bilingual students learn pre-reading skills faster than monolingual peers. Bilingualism also enhances multitasking, creativity, and working memory, boosting academic achievement.
Job Opportunities
Bilingual adults have greater job prospects compared to those who speak only one language. The demand for educated bilinguals is rising worldwide due to business growth.
Challenges and Solutions of ESL Education
Language Proficiency Challenges
ESL learners often struggle with limited vocabulary and language abilities. This makes expressing themselves challenging. To tackle this issue, educators should use methods that enhance the four main language skills. The latter are: listening, speaking, reading, and writing.
Listening to audio with written transcripts and doing interactive activities are great ways to learn a language. They enhance ESL students’ listening abilities. Teachers should let students speak in various situations to improve their speaking skills. Role-playing, talking, and structured speaking tasks help improve spoken English fluency.
Improving writing skills in ESL students requires regular practice, feedback, and tailored tasks.
Motivational and confidence issues
Some students may feel discouraged while learning a new language. This may lead to reduced motivation and confidence. In response, educators should identify and address the reasons behind students’ disengagement. Improving the learning environment and teaching methods can increase students' enthusiasm for learning.
Creating an engaging learning environment helps students overcome motivational and confidence issues. This enables them to thrive in their language-learning journey.
Communication Challenges
Good communication skills are crucial in ESL education. Pronunciation is a common challenge for ESL learners, affecting their English communication. Teachers can assist by using pronunciation drills, phonetic exercises, and speech therapy techniques.
What is Bilingual Education?
If you're fluent in a second language besides your native one, growing as a professional and being a valuable asset will be more realistic because you will have access to job prospects in a second language as well.
In bilingual classrooms, students speak the same native language, fostering a sense of value for their language. Unlike traditional classrooms, this approach allows discussions, debates, and presentations in both languages. The latter helps students practice speaking skills in both languages.
Dual language education, also known as two-way immersion, is becoming increasingly popular. Research revealed that dual-language students outperformed those in English-only classrooms. Their test scores went up, parents got more involved, and behavior issues decreased.
What is the Approach to Bilingual Education?
Bilingual Education
Students receive instruction in multiple languages, with the proportion varying between schools.
Submersion
Non-native English speakers receive instruction only in English, regardless of their duration of English language learning.
English as a Second Language
Students attend both regular classes and ESL classes. The latter provides specialized instruction focused on mastering English.
Immersion
This is more common for native English speakers who want to become proficient in a foreign language. Teachers conduct classes entirely in the foreign language throughout the day.
Two-way Bilingual Education
Both native and non-native English speakers attend classes. Instruction is given in English and students' native language. The objective is for all students to attain proficiency in both languages.
Benefits of Bilingual Education
The main advantages of a bilingual education are:
Cognitive Growth
Bilingual education offers numerous cognitive advantages. Children proficient in a second language are excellent in tasks requiring creativity. They can easily recognize patterns and solve problems. Young learners also gain deeper language awareness.
Enhanced Memory
Children who learn a second or third language show improved memory and greater cognitive creativity. This is in contrast to those who speak only one language. Studies show bilinguals are better at remembering names, directions, and items than monolinguals.
Appreciation of Different Cultures
Learning two languages helps students cultivate an understanding of cultural differences. They can interact with languages through songs, idioms, and other sources without translation. This, in turn, fosters deeper cultural exchanges.
Better Brain Executive Function
The executive function controls our ability to plan, solve problems, and handle challenging tasks. Bilingual individuals are good at sorting important information from less important. This helps them focus and make decisions better.
Challenges and Solutions of Bilingual Education
Challenging to learn certain subjects
Teaching certain second-language content can be tough because students are supposed to learn complex ideas simultaneously. This is especially true when it comes to young children. In some school districts with bilingual programs, one language is taught for part of the day and the other for the rest. This also helps to increase the attention span of learners. If a student struggles with division and second-language grammar, their education could suffer.
Learning in two languages can alter a student’s focus
During a typical school day in a 50/50 bilingual program, students struggling with the new language may end up focusing only on it. Apart from academics, schools provide avenues for creativity, sports, and vocational training. If a student lags behind in their second language and has trouble with homework, they might focus on catching up in that language. This could mean failing essential life skills.
Comparing Bilingual and ESL Education
The main distinction between bilingual and ESL education lies in the role of the native language. In bilingual programs, the native language is valued and nurtured. It serves as an asset to students’ development. ESL programs often focus on English, viewing the native language as an obstacle rather than a helpful resource.
Academic Performance
Bilingual students often excel academically because they learn literacy in two languages. This enhances cognitive abilities. For ESL students, non-English subjects might be challenging, but they can enhance their skills through full immersion.
Cultural Identity
Bilingual education supports students in maintaining their cultural identity. They do so by helping them enhance their native language skills. On the other hand, ESL programs focus on blending into English-speaking cultures. This might weaken students' ties to their original culture.
Cognitive Growth
Bilingual Education lets students preserve their cultural identity by allowing them to continue developing their native language skills. ESL learners can improve their English skills through immersive experiences.
How to Choose the Right Program?
Choosing between bilingual and ESL education relies on various factors:
Educational goals: If preserving the native language is a priority, a bilingual program may be preferable.
Availability: Not all schools provide bilingual programs. Additionally, the quality and emphasis of ESL programs can differ significantly.
Personal preferences: Some families may prefer full English immersion to help their children adjust faster to their new surroundings. This approach aims to facilitate quicker adaptation for the children.
Conclusion
It’s really hard to choose between bilingual education and English as your second language because most often the environment decides first. Nevertheless, being proficient in English is mandatory if you want to become a successful professional in the modern digital world and have access to infinite potential.