A Review on Implementing CLT in the Arab Context: Challenges and Solutions

Abstract

Communicative language teaching (CLT) is an approach that has been known for more than forty years. The current study presents an in-depth look into the use of Communicative Language Teaching (CLT) for EFL/ESL learners in the Arab countries. Through reviewing some of the available literature in the field, this study aims to investigate the existing status of CLT instruction and the obstacles faced while applying this approach in some Arab countries. The findings of the study highlight some of the benefits of the CLT approach on the learning process as it encourages students' interaction and communication, makes it easier for them to use the language in real-world situations, and helps them to become more independent with good critical thinking abilities and problem-solving skills. The findings have also revealed that the main impediments faced by many teachers of English are the lack of resources, lack of training, and resistance to change the traditional teaching practices. In conclusion, the current study indicates that CLT continues to exist in the English language classroom with restricted implementation in the Arab world. Therefore, in order to achieve the goals of this approach, teachers need help to overcome these encountered obstacles through providing them with appropriate training, adequate resources, and integrating technology knowledgeably.