CHALLENGES AND SOLUTIONS IN TEACHING ENGLISH IN RURAL AREAS: A CASE STUDY OF UZBEKISTAN
Keywords:
English Language Teaching (ELT), rural education, Uzbekistan, challenges, solutions, teacher training, resource scarcity, digital divide, motivation, cultural context, community engagement.Abstract
The Republic of Uzbekistan has made significant strides in educational reform, particularly in enhancing English Language Teaching (ELT) to foster global integration and economic development. However, implementing these reforms effectively in rural areas presents a unique array of challenges. This article examines the specific systemic, pedagogical, and socio-cultural hurdles faced by ELT in rural Uzbekistan, contrasting them with urban settings where resources and exposure are more abundant. Key challenges include a digital divide, limited access to modern teaching materials, insufficient teacher training, and lower student motivation due to a lack of real-world English exposure. Drawing on existing research and a contextual understanding of Uzbekistan, this paper proposes practical and sustainable solutions. These include targeted investment in infrastructure, comprehensive and accessible teacher professional development, the development of culturally relevant learning materials, and fostering robust community engagement. The aim is to bridge the educational gap, ensure equitable access to quality English education for all Uzbek learners, and contribute to the nation's broader socio-economic development.
References
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