International Journal of Language & Literature

“Challenges of Teaching in Mixed-Ability Classes and Strategies EFL Teachers Use – A Case Study in Albania”
Elona Mehilli Kolaj

Abstract
Teaching EFL is a very challenging job, especially in mixed-ability classes as it involves planning lessons that include a variety of tasks corresponding to a variety of learning abilities and cultures. Mixed-ability classes are considered a universal phenomenon. Students are set in classes according to their age and year of study. Firstly, this study is made to provide an overview of the challenges faced by teachers in mixed-ability classes in Albania. Secondly, it aims to make some possible suggestions for successful implementations in mixed-ability classes in Albania.The study has been conducted through quantitative and qualitative design and the participants in this quantitative and qualitative study are teachers from the University of Tirana, the Polytechnic University Albania, and Catholic University “Our Lady of Good Counsel” in Albania. The main results of this study show that the main challenges in mixed-ability classes are different learning styles; lack of confidence of students to communicate in class; lack of teaching materials; teacher training and student motivation. The strategies teachers report to overcome the challenges areusing differentiated instruction, working on different topics and materials; applying creative tasks that allow students to work at their levels; pair work, and group work students encouraging them to communicate in English. This study attempts to aid teachers to respond positively to the demands of mixed-ability and EFL teaching contexts. Teachers need specific competencies to effectively teach in mixed-ability classes and they have a special role in creating a methodology that addresses different levels of students.

Full Text: PDF      DOI: 10.15640/ijll.v10n1a3