Dr. Rod Ellis
In this talk I will discuss the various impediments to the implementation of TBLT in state schools in Asia. This provide the basis for arguing the need for well-thought out teacher preparation programmes. Previous evaluation studies of such programmes have pointed to a number of factors that are the key to their success. Drawing on research in teacher education more generally I identify a number of general principles that can guide the design of preparation programmes. Following a discussion of various proposals for the development of teacher preparation programmes for TBLT, I outline an introductory course designed to provide teachers with the concepts and tools needed to implement TBLT in their own classrooms. Finally. I acknowledge some impediments are likely to remain. Policy makers may mandate TBLT but at the same time wish to adhere to a structural syllabus and explicit language teaching. Traditional tests stay in place. In such a context pure TBLT cannot flourish. It is necessary to seek some kind of compromise. I conclude with suggestions for this.