DO ENGLISH TEACHERS IN BANDUNG UNDERSTAND EFFECTIVE ENGLISH TEACHING? (A Survey of Early Childhood and Primary School Teachers' Understanding of Effective English Teaching in Bandung)

Abstract

There has been a misconception that teaching English at the primary level does not require the same English language skills as at higher levels. In addition, due to the lack of professional support such as in-service training, teacher preparedness at the primary level is very limited. In fact, effective English language teaching is needed to ensure successful learning. This study is a survey-research that aims to determine the level of understanding of early grade preschool and primary school teachers in conducting effective English language teaching. The respondents were early grade preschool and primary school teachers in Bandung City. The quota sampling technique was used to select respondents based on predetermined criteria, namely: 1) Have taught English for at least 1 year; 2) English learning is part of the school curriculum, and; 3) Provide English learning at least once a week. In this study, 30 respondents were determined. The data collection process was conducted through a questionnaire using google form. The results showed that the level of understanding of early grade preschool and primary school teachers in Bandung City was in the 'understanding enough' category with a percentage of 73.7%. The results also show that early grade preschool and primary school teachers feel it is very important to be equipped with systematic job training, so that English teaching can be done effectively.