Developing an integrated ABE/ESL curriculum: Work-in-progress

Abstract

For many years, USWE has been developing a process approach to basic ESL for adults. Although this approach has outstanding pedagogical advantages, it also has important limitations for the South African context. In the past two years this country has witnessed unprecedented interest in adult basic education; and the establishment of a national ABE system appears imminent. In this context, the use of a process approach on a national scale appears implausible as it would require rich resources and exceptionally well-trained teachers who are also curriculum developers. A further limitation concerns the feasibility of accrediting these diverse courses.