Effectiveness of corpus based approach on performnace in english of standard VIII students in Kerala

Abstract

English language learning process and learning outcomes have been the theme of discussions on secondary school level curriculum in Kerala. The principles and theories of English as Second Language propose acquisition of language elements to ensure performance in real life contexts. In spite of a series of research studies on the process of acquisition of elements of language, mainly, vocabulary items, leamers struggle hard in meaningful communication, using appropriate words. At this Jjuncture, an experimental study on the effectiveness of Corpus Based Approach on performance in English of standard VIII students was carried out. The approach relies on the use of linguistic corpora as a repository for acquisition of vocabulary. The pretest — post-test non-equivalent group design was followed and the sample consisted of 31 students in the experimental group and 34 students in the control group. Based on the analysis of data, applying the statistical technique of t-test, the study concluded that corpus based approach is more effective on performance in English related to Speaking, Reading and Writing. The conventional Constructivist approach was found to be more effective for the skill of Listening. Based on the conclusions, the study puts forward recommendations regarding research policy, curriculum development, resource planning, teacher professionalism, infrastructure facility and policy on outsourcing.