Communicative language teaching in public universities in Afghanistan: perceptions and challenges

Abstract

While Communicative Language Teaching (CLT) has been advocated in Afghanistan, little is known about the perception of Afghan EFL (English as a Foreign Language) teachers on CLT. This study aims to investigate the perceptions and challenges of CLT in Afghan public universities from the perspectives of EFL teachers. The study employed a mixed-method approach comprising survey questionnaires and a qualitative interview. A sample of sixty-two Afghan EFL teachers was selected to participate in a survey questionnaire, while five were interviewed. Findings from the questionnaires and interview showed that Afghan EFL teachers have positive perceptions regarding CLT. The results also showed that the education system is one of the significant challenges for CLT implementation in Afghan public universities. The current study is valuable for policymakers, teachers, and students for improvement of EFL classes in Afghanistan.