OPPORTUNITIES FOR ENGLISH LANGUAGE TEACHERS IN THE 21st CENTURY

ВОЗМОЖНОСТИ УЧИТЕЛЯ АНГЛИЙСКОГО ЯЗЫКА В 21 ВЕКЕ

Ахметова Сабина Талгатовна

студент, кафедра иностранных языков, Костанайский Региональный Университет им. Ахмет Байтурсынулы, Казахстан, г. Костанай

Морозова Дина Аскатовна

канд. пед. наук, Костанайский Региональный Университет им. Ахмет Байтурсынулы, Казахстан, г. Костанай

Abstract. This paper explores the opportunities and difficulties faced by English language teachers in the modern era. A special focus is placed on how new technologies and innovative teaching methods influence the learning process and teachers’ professional growth. The study is built on theoretical insights and data collected through a survey conducted among teachers in Kazakhstan and other CIS countries. Findings suggest that while the integration of technology significantly improves teaching quality, it is often hindered by issues such as technical problems and a lack of time to learn new tools. The article proposes practical steps to enhance teachers' ability to effectively use innovative methods and technologies.

Аннотация. В данной статье рассматриваются возможности и трудности, с которыми сталкиваются преподаватели английского языка в современную эпоху. Особое внимание уделяется тому, как новые технологии и инновационные методы обучения влияют на процесс обучения и профессиональный рост преподавателей. Исследование основано на теоретических выводах и данных, собранных в ходе опроса, проведенного среди преподавателей в Казахстане и других странах СНГ. Результаты показывают, что, хотя интеграция технологий значительно повышает качество преподавания, ей часто мешают такие проблемы, как технические проблемы и нехватка времени на изучение новых инструментов. В статье предлагаются практические шаги по повышению способности преподавателей эффективно использовать инновационные методы и технологии.

Keywords: English language teaching, 21st century, modern technologies, teaching methods, professional development of teachers.

Ключевые слова: Преподавание английского языка, 21 век, современные технологии, методы обучения, профессиональное развитие преподавателей.

Introduction

The 21st century has brought major transformations to education, significantly impacting teaching approaches at all levels, including foreign language education. English language teachers now navigate challenges like the adoption of digital tools, the rise of online education, and the need to adjust to changing teaching paradigms. This paper aims to examine the opportunities available to English teachers today, highlight the challenges they encounter, and explore ways to address these issues effectively.

Theoretical Background

Over the past few decades, technology has become a key part of teaching foreign languages. Modern tools—such as online platforms, mobile apps, and virtual classrooms—enable educators to improve learning outcomes and increase student engagement. These advancements help address globalization’s demands, such as preparing students for international competitiveness and enhancing communication skills for the modern world.

One of the greatest benefits of technology in education is its ability to personalize learning. Tools like educational platforms and apps allow teachers to tailor lessons to the individual needs of their students, improving their language skills and fostering greater participation in the learning process.

However, despite these benefits, challenges remain. Teachers face technical issues, insufficient training, and difficulties adapting to new curricula and standards, all of which slow down the adoption of modern teaching techniques.

Empirical Research

To better understand these challenges, an online survey was conducted among English language teachers from Kazakhstan and neighboring CIS countries. The goal was to explore their experiences with technology in teaching, the obstacles they encounter, and the types of training they feel are necessary to fully adopt new methods.

Methodology: The survey included questions about preferences for technology use, its perceived effectiveness, and barriers to its implementation. Fifty educators from schools and universities participated in the survey.

Results: Most teachers reported using tools such as Google^* Classroom, Moodle, Duolingo, and Quizlet in their teaching. Sixty-five percent of respondents noted that technology has a positive impact on the learning process. However, 45% mentioned barriers such as limited technical resources and a lack of time to familiarize themselves with new tools.

Discussion

The results of this study align with the idea that modern technology significantly enhances the quality of English language teaching. Yet, technical difficulties and insufficient training time prevent many educators from fully embracing these innovations. To address these issues, systematic support is needed from both educational institutions and government bodies.

Conclusion

Incorporating modern technologies and teaching methods into English language education is essential for improving the quality of education. Teachers must be equipped to use these tools effectively, but this requires overcoming challenges such as technical limitations and insufficient training opportunities. Comprehensive professional development programs can help educators feel more confident with technology, ultimately enriching the overall educational experience.

*(At the request of Roskomnadzor, we inform you that a foreign person who owns Google information resources is a violator of the legislation of the Russian Federation - ed. note)