An extensive evaluation study of the English preparatory curriculum of a foreign language school

Abstract

The study aimed to evaluate the English preparation curriculum at Aydýn Adnan Menderes University School of Foreign Languages according to the Bellon and Handler model. The study was designed as a "case study", which aimed to obtain qualitative and quantitative data from the selected case. 310 English preparation class students, 26 English lecturers, 26 lecturers of other departments and 24 students of other departments participated in the study. The data were gathered through a scale, questionnaire, interviews, class observations and document analysis. The study was conducted according to the four steps of the "Bellon and Handler Model". Findings were presented according to the status descriptions, analysis activities and curriculum improvement components of the four steps. In conclusion, it was found that there were no philosophy or goals of the English preparatory curriculum. Though the students had positive motivation towards learning English, they could not reach the desired level. Moreover, the inefficacy of teaching of the skills courses was emphasized by all participants. This problem was thought result from lack of practice. There were some communication problems between the administration and other participants. Physical facilities should be improved. Professional English teaching should be included in the preparatory school curriculum. Furthermore, the involvement of some stakeholders in the decision-making process should be enabled.