The journey of teaching English can be simplified into three main phases, each marking significant developments in how the language was taught and learned.
Phase 1: The Early Foundations (15th to 18th Century)
- English began to gain prominence in European schools alongside classical languages like Latin and Greek.
- Despite English becoming the major language in England by the 15th century, Latin remained the language of instruction in Grammar Schools.
- The emergence of ELT textbooks, such as “The English School Master” and “Familiar Dialogues,” marked the initial steps towards teaching English to non-native speakers.
- Interest in English literature, philosophy, and the works of poets like Shakespeare attracted learners from various European countries.
Phase 2: Expansion and Formalization (19th Century)
- Rapid development of ELT occurred due to factors like colonial expansion, increasing English-speaking population, and educational reforms.
- ELT textbooks emerged to meet the demand, with methods like the Grammar Translation Method gaining popularity.
- English became a subject of importance in European secondary schools, with teaching methods influenced by those used for Latin and Greek.
- Initiatives like the Berlitz schools introduced new teaching approaches for specific language needs.
Phase 3: Modernization and Globalization (20th Century Onward)
- The 20th century saw ELT evolve into a global phenomenon, with distinct phases from 1900 to the present.
- Applied linguistics and new learning theories contributed to the scientific foundation of ELT.
- English emerged as the lingua franca of the modern era, with widespread use in communication, education, and technology.
- English became indispensable in countries like India, serving as a bridge language among diverse linguistic communities.
- The rise of information technology further cemented English as the language of global communication.
Conclusion:
The history of English language teaching reflects its journey from humble beginnings to becoming a global force, with each phase marked by significant developments in pedagogy, methodology, and the role of English in society.