Exploring the Application of the Backward Design Model in EFL Classrooms: Teachers' Perceptions and Practices

Authors

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.33448/rsd-v12i4.41102

Keywords:

Backward Design; EFL; Teachers’ Perceptions; Syllabi Design.

Abstract

This qualitative approach study aimed to explore and illustrate the teachers' perceptions in applying the Backward Design Model (BDM) in designing the Ecuadorian teaching syllabi for secondary public schools. Sixteen teachers were selected, and the data was gathered through the teachers' unit designs based on the BDM, teachers' reflections on the implementations of the BDM, and focus-group interviews. The analysis was done using a thematic approach. The researchers followed an interactive process by going forwards and backwards in reading, coding, and creating common themes that emerged from the collected data. The results indicate that the participants found the BDM planning a complex but fruitful process which allows them to better align the students' learning outcomes of each unit with the instructional materials, strategies, and teaching content based on a specific goal. The implications of this research lead to a possible consideration by the Ecuadorian Ministry of Education to enact this syllabus design according to the classroom context fully.

References

Abd El Ghany, O., Salem, M., Amin, M., & Yousif, A. (2019). Using Performance Assessment Tasks for Developing EFL Listening Comprehension Skills among Preparatory Stage Pupils. Journal of College Education, 30(118), 1–20. https://doi.org/10.12816/JFEB.2019.61557

Biggs, J., & Tang, C. (2011). Train-the-trainers: Implementing outcomes-based teaching and learning in Malaysian higher education. Malaysian Journal of Learning and Instruction, 8, 1-19. https://e-journal.uum.edu.my/index.php/mjli/article/view/7624

Darby, F., & Lang, J. M. (2019). Small teaching online: Applying learning science in online classes. John Wiley & Sons.

Dodd, B. J. (2021). Curriculum design processes. Design for Learning

Drake, S., & Reid, J. (2018). Integrated Curriculum as an Effective Way to Teach 21st Century Capabilities. Asia Pacific Journal of Educational Research, 1(1), 31–50. https://doi.org/10.30777/APJER.2018.1.1.03

Fink, L. D. (2013). Creating significant learning experiences: An integrated approach to designing college courses. John Wiley & Sons.

Hodaeian, M., & Biria, R. (2015). The effect of Backward Design on Intermediate EFL Learners' L2 Reading Comprehension: Focusing on Learners' Attitudes. Journal of Applied Linguistics and Language Research, 2(7), 80–93. http://www.jallr.com/index.php/JALLR/article/view/162

Hosseini, H., Chalak, A., & Biria, R. (2019). Impact of Backward Design on Improving Iranian Advanced Learners' Writing Ability: Teachers' Practices and Beliefs, International Journal of Instruction, 2019-Apr. International Journal of Instruction, 12(2), 33–50. https://eric.ed.gov/?id=EJ1211038

Ibrahim, H. B. (2022). Implementing Backward Design to foster intercultural communicative competence in textbook-based curricula: A proposed framework for English language practitioners. Intercultural Communication Education, 5(1), 1-16. https://doi.org/10.29140/ice.v5n1.638

Kaewkungwal, J., & Adams, P. (2019). Ethical consideration of the research proposal and the informed-consent process: An online survey of researchers and ethics committee members in Thailand, Accountability in Research, 26:3, 176-197. https://doi.org/10.1080/08989621.2019.1608190

McTighe, J., & Willis, J. (2019). Upgrade Your Teaching: Understanding by Design Meets Neuroscience. ASCD.

Michelle E. Kiger & Lara Varpio (2020): Thematic analysis of qualitative data: AMEE Guide No. 131, Medical Teacher, DOI: 10.1080/0142159X.2020.1755030

MINEDUC. (2016). Curriculo de Lengua Extranjera. https://educacion.gob.ec/curriculo-lengua-extranjera/

Rabiee, F. (2004). Focus-group interview and data analysis. Proceedings of the nutrition society, 63(4), 655-660.

Richards, J. C. (2013). Curriculum Approaches in Language Teaching: Forward, Central, and Backward Design: RELC, 44(1), 5–33. https://doi.org/10.1177/0033688212473293

Tongco, M. D. C. (2007). Purposive sampling as a tool for informant selection. Ethnobotany Research & Applications 5, 147-158.

Utami, A. A., & Bram, B. (2023). Backward design implementation in English as a Foreign Language (EFL) context. Journal of Education and Teaching (JET), 4(1), 110-118. https://jet.or.id/index.php/jet/article/view/211/67

Wiggins, G., & McTighe, J. (1998). Understanding by Design. ASCD.

Wiggins, G., & McTighe, J. (2005). Understanding by Design. ASCD.

Wiggins, G., & McTighe, J. (2011). The Understanding by Design Guide to Creating High-Quality Units. ASCD.

Williams, M., & Moser, T. (2019). The art of coding and thematic exploration in qualitative research. International Management Review, 15(1), 45-55.

Whitehouse, M. (2014). Using a backward design approach to embed assessment in teaching. School Science Review, 95(352), 99-104.

Downloads

Published

06/04/2023

How to Cite

ALVAREZ-LLERENA, C. L.; COUTINHO DOS SANTOS, J. .; VÉLEZ SACOTO, D. E. .; VERA BALBUCA, J. M. . Exploring the Application of the Backward Design Model in EFL Classrooms: Teachers’ Perceptions and Practices. Research, Society and Development, [S. l.], v. 12, n. 4, p. e14912441102, 2023. DOI: 10.33448/rsd-v12i4.41102. Disponível em: https://rsdjournal.org/index.php/rsd/article/view/41102. Acesso em: 25 apr. 2024.

Issue

Section

Teaching and Education Sciences