The TL/DR...
- Proficiency in English can provide learners with a greater awareness and understanding of diverse cultures and open opportunities in fields such as business, science, technology, tourism, and diplomacy.
- When students take ownership of their learning in an English language classroom, they will be better prepared to use English in achieving the goals they have established for themselves in their personal lives.
- By designing projects that are connected to the real world, English language teachers can nurture the development of responsible, autonomous, engaged students who can apply the knowledge they learn to situations outside the classroom.
When students learn English in the classroom, a gateway opens that provides them with a greater awareness and understanding of cultures that extends well beyond the classroom, reaching across the globe. Not only does English influence the literature, music, and art of other cultures, but it is the language used in the study of science, technology, business, and many other disciplines here and abroad. Because the English language transcends borders, becoming proficient in its use creates countless career and social opportunities for students. And for English language learners, as discussed below, this exciting journey all starts in the classroom.
Why is it important for students to take ownership of their learning in an English classroom, and why does it matter for their success?
When students take ownership of their learning in an English language classroom, they will be better prepared to use English in their real lives. It is vitally important for students to be able to use a new language outside of the classroom to reach the goals they have established for themselves. Since English is an important global language used for business, science, technology, tourism, and diplomacy, students can develop their own goals for where and how they want to use English. Building a sense of autonomy in the classroom will increase their likelihood of success outside of the classroom.
How can supportive, student-centered teaching help students stay motivated, confident, and engaged in learning English?
Student-centered teaching requires educators to really know their learners, not just as students but as people. Each student is a unique human being who possesses their own individual interests and talents. Getting to know their learners and what motivates them will help teachers develop activities and projects that will engage students in the learning process. Knowing their learners is the first step in the lesson planning process for teachers!
What strategies can ESOL/World Language educators implement to help ensure they are empowering their students?
Language educators should create a classroom environment and assign tasks and projects that are connected to the real world. This will nurture the natural curiosity and creativity of students. In doing so, educators should design activities that highlight the talents of students and give them a sense of independence and freedom as well as ownership over their learning. Adopting such an approach will facilitate the development of responsible, autonomous learners who not only use language effectively, but also thrive as engaged, self-aware individuals who can apply the knowledge acquired in classrooms to situations encountered within the context of the broader real world.
About the author…
The author of this feature article is Joan Shin, associate dean for Faculty Success and professor in the English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) Education and World Language Education Programs within the College of Education and Human Development at George Mason University. This article draws on the theme of a workshop led by Shin that was designed for K-12 English language teachers titled “Teaching with Purpose: Empowering Learner Voice, Autonomy, and Well-Being in the English Classroom.” The workshop was held as part of “National Geographic Learning Day Vietnam 2026,” an event held in Hanoi on May 19, 2026, and Ho Chi Minh City on May 21, 2026. The goal of this event was to learn and explore how purposeful English teaching can help students grow into confident communicators, critical thinkers, and “future ready” learners.