Ways to Teach English after the COVID-19 Era

Abstract

This article tries to illustrate the circumstances of teaching English in the New Normal following the global spread of the COVID-19 pandemic, which has led to an essential role for online education. The objectives of this study were to examine the evolution of English language learning, from traditional methods to the "New Normal," focusing on the integration of technology in contemporary language education, explore the ways to teach English through online platforms and analyze the advantages, disadvantages, and limitations of online learning. The data was collected using quantitative and qualitative methods. Quantitative data was gathered using a questionnaire while qualitative data were derived from books, research, articles, and relevant news sources. The study sample comprised 200 undergraduate students from Phetchabun Rajabhat University during the 2566 B.E. academic year. This study aligns with active English language learning and is attuned to productive language learning, adapting to the New Normal era's changing dynamics for effective learning and fostering communication-focused English instruction in this context. This is regarded as active learning English language instruction and is also connected to productive learning language instruction, which adapts to the New Normal era in accordance with the changes that occur to adjust and learn effectively the New Normal as same as implementing communication-focused English instruction in the New Normal. Promoting teaching and learning in the twenty-first century has a form and objective that attempts to give students the opportunity to acquire and practice various skills on their own, regardless of time or space constraints. The study results indicate that students held a neutral stance (X̅ = 2.83, S.D. = 1.91). It showed that students could cope with the situation. The COVID-19 pandemic forced a rapid and widespread shift to online learning, with profound effects on education. The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated online learning adoption, offering flexibility and safety. The advantages include accessibility and convenience, allowing remote education. However, it revealed the disadvantages such as the digital divide, hindering equitable access. Challenges like decreased social interaction, distractions, and mental health issues also emerged, impacting the overall educational experience. Educational institutions should enact policies for coordinated training, encouragement of content development, knowledge-sharing sessions and managing best teaching practices for the best of everyone.