English Language Teaching Goals: Embracing Global Varieties for Effective Communication

In the contemporary era of globalization, English has evolved into a multifaceted tool for intercultural communication, transcending its traditional boundaries. This essay explores the shifting paradigms in English language teaching (ELT), moving away from the pursuit of native-like competence towards a more pragmatic focus on communicative proficiency in English as a Lingua Franca (ELF). Through an examination of global English varieties and ELT goals, the essay argues for a pedagogical approach that embraces linguistic diversity and prioritizes effective communication over conformity to native norms. Drawing on insights from ELF research and communicative language teaching methodologies, it advocates for empowering learners with the skills to navigate diverse linguistic contexts and engage in meaningful interactions with speakers from diverse cultural backgrounds.