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 o  Case analysis:

Addressing English Learning Challenges in Fifth-Grade Students

 Context:

The case study focuses on fifth-grade students from the Rural Vanguardia Educational Institution. These children, aged between 10 and 12 years old, mostly come from nearby areas, and many reside in a nearby ICBF boarding school. It is important to note that these students come from challenging environments. Some lack access to the Internet, which limits their opportunities for online learning. Additionally, several students have suffered psychological abuse due to their marginalized environment, which can affect their concentration and motivation to learn.

Problem/Topic:

The main problem is the low level of English knowledge of the students, which is approximately equivalent to an A1 level. This is due to the lack of a licensed English teacher and the use of traditional teaching methodologies. Additionally, external factors such as limited access to the Internet and experiences of psychological abuse complicate the challenges. Students show little interest in learning English, considering it difficult and not very useful.

Solution/Response:

The proposed solution involves a comprehensive action plan based on the principles of Participatory Action Research (PAR). The initial phase includes a detailed analysis of the problem, diagnosing the lack of a specialized English teacher, traditional teaching methods, and external challenges such as limited access to the Internet and psychological trauma.

Taking inspiration from the ideas of Donald Schön (1983) advocating for reflection in action, an action hypothesis is formulated, emphasizing the need to adapt educational strategies as circumstances change.

Daniel L. Stufflebeam (2003), an advocate for systematic evaluation approaches, inspires the action phase. An adapted curriculum plan is designed and implemented, which incorporates engaging teaching methods, strategies to improve Internet access and psychological support programs.

John Elliott (1991), known for his participatory action research approach, underpins the structure of continuous reflection. A continuous observation process, data collection, and stakeholder participation are established to evaluate and adjust the plan as needed.

The reflection phase uses Schön's theory to continuously evaluate the effectiveness of the plan. This involves continuous observation, data collection, stakeholder participation, and feedback analysis. Specific actions are described to rectify, emphasizing a proactive approach to addressing identified deficiencies, according to Schön's reflective practice.

This comprehensive approach to participatory action research aims to overcome the specific barriers faced by fifth-grade students, promoting a more inclusive and effective learning environment. The continuous cycle of improvement, supported by recognized authors such as Elliott, ensures sustained positive impact of the implemented initiatives.

o   Three: Information sources

To support the case study topic, three relevant publications were searched for:

•  Year of publication: 2012

Author: Stephen Krashen

Summary/Main Ideas: This article explores the importance of access to reading for language learning. Krashen argues that reading in English is essential for improving language competence and that students should have access to a wide variety of reading materials at their level.

Bibliographic reference: Krashen, S. (2012). Free Voluntary Reading: New Research, Applications, and Controversies. Libraries Unlimited.

•  Year of publication: 2017

Author: Harold D. Stolovitch and Erica J. Keeps

Summary/Main ideas: This book explores the principles of performance improvement in the educational field. The authors present a model for designing and implementing effective interventions, emphasizing the importance of continuous evaluation and feedback.

Bibliographic reference: Stolovitch, H. D., and Keeps, E. J. (2017). Telling Ain't Training: Updated, Expanded, Enhanced. American Society for Training and Development. 

• Year of publication: 2020

Author: National Council of Teachers of English

Summary/Main ideas: This website provides resources and tools for improving English teaching in the classroom. It includes articles and teaching materials for a variety of topics related to language learning.

Bibliographic reference: National Council of Teachers of English. (2020). Resources for English Language Learners. 

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