Principles of Effective Materials Development

Principles of Effective Materials Development 

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by

Prof. Marcela Barrantes Loaiza

         In the development of teaching materials, many teachers have come to the conclusion that the first thing, we as teachers, should analyze is the learner's environment and focus on their own experiences. We need to make sure that the material that is being made suit the language objectives desire.

   Sometimes teachers are afraid to create their own materials or go beyond the program and escalate further then the learner's needs. Remembering many other readings made in the past and comparing the one done by the author Brian Tomlinson, I have learned that the best way to teach the language is to search the students needs and create their own environment, where they can be comfortable.

Additionally, we should look for the best material that will fulfill their needs and create the best material for them. In this way, they will feel part of the learning process.   I agree that the teacher has to conduct a self-analysis and when creating or using materials from which students will benefit. Teachers can manage their own teaching material and help their students achieve their goal of learnig and putting language acquisition into practice.

          In my case, even though, I have created materials to evaluate students. Every time I evaluate a group, I always customize the material for the different groups and levels. Furthermore, oftentimes colleagues mention how English teachers have the ability to create so many activities and things for the students, but we must do so in order to have the learners be more interested, as the author pointed out on the six principles of materials development. The creation of authentic materials should be kept in mind to ensure its effectiveness and flexibility, moving from the text to real language and learner development.

         In conclusion, I believe that every teacher should put consider many of the principles read during the process of creating ELT materials, tailor-made according to students' level, capacity and environment.