This study is a survey aimed at finding out the most efficient way to use English Zone in elementary schools located in eastern areas of Jeollanam-do. For this study, I observed English Zone of four schools and conducted a survey targeting 120 Elementary English teachers working at sixty different schools located in eastern areas of Jeollanam-do. I tried to seek the efficient utilization plan after checking the current status.
First, the main purpose of 'English Experience Class Programs' is to take English course after class rather than regular English curriculum. As a result, the study shows that students improve their interest and confidence in English by offering them a variety of opportunities to speak English. In addition, various school events related to English learning allow students to experience the appropriate use of English in context and enhance English speaking skills.
Second, most teachers agree that utilization of 'English Experience Class Programs' is effective for students not only relieving fear and pressure from English but also taking English as natural by communicating with foreign English teachers very often. They also support that the utilization of 'English Experience Class Programs' helps students improve the basic command of English.
Third, the study indicates more English teachers and somewhat realistic environment for language practice are needed to manage 'English Experience Class' effectively and teach students authentically. In fact, there are several problems pointed out such as the insufficient working space for English teachers, the lack of time because of a lot of school work, and the housing problem of foreign English teachers. Moreover, teachers should be given more training in guiding 'English Experience Class', English teaching methods, and classroom English.
The most efficient utilization plan of English Zone through the study is as follows: First of all, the learning in 'English Experience Class' should focus on understanding and acquiring the English culture. When English Zone has students feel familiar with English, actively participate in a variety of productive activities, and perform the experience learning, it is important to provide them with constant opportunities to experience communicating in English with their voluntary will and clear motive.
Therefore, teachers will have to pay attention to how to upgrade the quality of teaching and boost the effectiveness of English education. In other words, teachers need to prepare for authentic materials which can arouse students' interest and lead students to have internal and external motivation considering the level of students. To accomplish these goals effectively, professional English teachers who try to explore the effective ways to take advantage of 'English Experience Class' ought to make continuous effort and do their best.