International Forum
Vol. 19, No. 1
April 2016
Print ISSN : 0119-2000
Online ISSN : 2350-7497
FEATURE
Integration of Faith and Learning in the ESOL Classroom
Abstract: In this world, education is led by different philosophies. Any education institution is based on a chosen philosophy. Christian institutions, for instance, are led by the Christian philosophy of life. In Christian higher education, the integration of faith and learning is of paramount importance, as professors and students approach teaching and learning within a Christian worldview. The classroom where English is learned as a second language (L2) is no exception when it comes to teaching methods to develop adult Christian minds. This paper discusses the implications of the integration of faith and learning in a classroom context where adults are learning English as an L2. It briefly reviews the biblical worldview that genuine Christian teachers should hold and transmit to their students through modeling. It analyzes the connection between the process of first and second L2 acquisition and universal grammar within the framework of God as Creator. It then analyzes key aspects that contribute to an effective integration of faith and learning in the English classes. Finally, it presents some practical suggestions on how to attain this holistic approach of teaching when teaching reading, writing, listening, speaking, and grammar.
Keywords: ESOL, integration of faith and learning, language learning, language acquisition
Claudia E. Blath, MAEd-TESOL
Independent Scholar
Buenos Aires, Argentina
Safary Wa-Mbaleka, EdD, PhD
Editor, International Forum
Adventist International Institute of Advanced Studies
Silang, Philippines
