English teaching in Colombian rural schools: Challenges and opportunities

Abstract

This qualitative multiple case study reports the perceptions of education stakeholders about English teaching in rural areas of one of Colombia’s regions: Quindío. The participants of this investigation belong to the academic community (teachers, principals, coordinators, the bilingual coordinator of the region, and pedagogical staff) of different institutions in rural areas. Through in-depth interviews, observations, and focus groups, it was possible to identify the challenges that still persist in rural contexts regarding language teaching and the opportunities this region has had, thanks to the introduction of new initiatives whose main goal is to strengthen English learningteaching processes. Amongst the challenges, rural institutions still need major investment in resources and training; and there is a call for continuity of the projects being implemented. As for the opportunities, it is evident that better progress can be reached in all processes when education stakeholders’ voices are heard.