Authors: Yamini Saini
Abstract: English language education in India functions as both an academic prerequisite and a powerful instrument of socioeconomic advancement. This study undertakes an empirical exploration of teaching and learning practices in ten schools across Jammu and Kashmir, employing a mixed‑methods framework that integrates surveys, interviews, and classroom observations. The findings reveal that English is profoundly valued by students, teachers, and parents; however, pedagogical implementation is beset by persistent challenges. These include an over‑reliance on rote‑based instruction, limited exposure to authentic conversational practice, intense social pressures to perform flawlessly, and recurrent learner difficulties such as grammatical inaccuracy, pronunciation impediments, and deficient fluency. The study underscores the imperative of communicative pedagogy, learner‑centered approaches, and supportive classroom ecologies to mitigate both affective and structural barriers. It further argues that fostering English proficiency must be delicately balanced with respect for local languages and cultural identity, thereby facilitating holistic linguistic development in an increasingly interconnected world.
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