Evaluation of an English language program to identify the elements of the curriculum. A case study of a public high school in Ecuador

Abstract

Abstract:This research is a case study that evaluated the effectiveness of an English language program based on the perceptions of teachers and students of a public institution in Ecuador. Therefore, the mixed research method was used, getting data through the application of five instruments: needs analysis, situational analysis, teaching conditions, principles, types of assessments, and tasks used for evaluation to identify the strengths and weaknesses of elements of the curriculum. The major findings were that teachers-students' needs and society requirements must be considered to develop a curriculum. For example, students need the language for communicational purposes; however, opportunities and time are not provided effectively. Additionally, English Language teaching needs improvement, that is, the use of technology and methodologies. Similarly, administrative support is needed in terms of training and providing resources for the teaching and learning process. Furthermore, in general terms, institutional support, preparation of staff, and program management need a plus to get excellence in education. Finally, teachers and students are familiarized with assessment types and tasks; nevertheless, some variation of activities would be appropriate for the evaluation of the skills.