Open AccessEnglish in Brazil: Insights from the Analysis of Language Policies, Internationalization Programs and the CLIL Approach
Author(s) -
Kyria Rebeca Finardi,
Roberta Gomes Leão,
Lívia Melina Pinheiro
Publication year - 2016
Publication title -
education and linguistics research
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
ISSN - 2377-1356
DOI - 10.5296/elr.v2i1.9150
Subject(s) - internationalization , context (archaeology) , foreign language , globalization , internationalization of higher education , reflection (computer programming) , content and language integrated learning , pedagogy , class (philosophy) , english language , sociology , political science , mathematics education , business , computer science , psychology , geography , artificial intelligence , archaeology , international trade , law , programming language
The paper proposes a reflection on the role of English in the globalized world and its teaching/learning in Brazil. With that aim, the study reviews language policies and internationalization programs in Brazil regarding the role of foreign languages in general and of English in particular. The theoretical framework includes a review of an English language teaching (ELT) approach used mainly in Europe, as a result of globalization and internationalization, the Content and Language Integrated Approach (CLIL). In order to support this reflection, a case study was carried out to examine pre-service English teachers’ beliefs on the use of CLIL in Brazil. The results of study show that pre-service English teachers understand the importance of the CLIL approach though they are aware of the various obstacles to its implementation in that context. The study suggests a review of language policies in Brazil so as to ensure a convergence between them and internationalization policies and approaches, at all levels of education. Regarding the ELT approach analyzed, the study concludes that despite the difficulties associated with the implementation of CLIL in Brazil, it represents a relevant alternative in that context.