Integration of 21^st Century Learning Skills and Teacher Characteristics in ESL Classrooms: The Case of Malaysia

Abstract

One of the main foci when discussing 21 st century learning skills (CLS) in English as a Second Language (ESL) classrooms, is ensuring effective integration of its construct during the teaching and learning process. Certainly, ESL teachers play important roles in achieving the desired results. In a way, teachers are expected to possess several characteristics which are needed in ensuring successful integration of 21 st CLS in the ESL classrooms. This research examined the extent to which the teachers in the Malaysian ESL context integrate 21 st CLS in their classrooms and to investigate their perceptions of their characteristics with regards to 21 st CLS. Data were collected from 291 ESL teachers using a questionnaire which focuses on the integration of 21 st CLS as well as on the teachers' self-rating related to 21 st CLS teacher characteristics. The results suggest a satisfactory level of integration of 21 st CLS in the Malaysian ESL classrooms and the teachers generally viewed themselves as reflecting the needed characteristics of 21 st century teachers. Even though the findings indicate positive results, efforts need to be increased to ensure more consistent integration of 21 st CLS during English lessons.

Professional Development Activities of IELTS Trainers from Non-English Major

“…They conduct professional development activities voluntarily, and the objective of their action is not planned, but it occurs due to their ongoing awareness of the need and value of learning (Ellingson & Noe., 2017). The IELTS trainers have been very "adaptive" to the need to be teachers in the twenty-first century (Seng et al, 2020).…”

“…The IELTS trainers were adaptive to the condition in their institution and decided to intensify their independent learning. To be "adaptive" in response to the available condition is a fundamental characteristic of teachers in today's era of technological development (Seng et al, 2020).…”

21st Century Skills and Learning Environments: ELT Students Perceptions

“…Every element of human life, including business, health, education, recreation, and social contact, has been impacted by the rapid progress in these fields. Seng et al (2020) state that each of us must reevaluate the way we work, conduct business, teach, learn, and communicate with one another in order to meet the requirements of the 21st century. According to Kaufman (2013), the competencies that make up 21st century skills include critical thinking and problem-solving abilities, communicative skills, information and media literacy skills, contextual learning skills, and an ever-vital cooperation skill set.…”