The Grammar Problem in Higher Education in Cameroon
Assessing Written Standard English among Undergraduates of the Department of English at the University of Yaounde 1
Published on 13. March 2015
Book
Hardback
195 pages
978-1-4438-7269-0 (ISBN)
Description
This book describes the English grammar weaknesses manifested in the written work of young Cameroonians in tertiary education. It identifies the areas where the problems are most acute, seeks the reasons for such low grammar competences, and suggests possible solutions to the problems. The Error Analysis Approach suggested by authors like S.P. Corder and J.C. Richards was used to carry out the study. The book will be of interest to all L2 learners and teachers of English, to language policy makers of L2 English, and to all those who wish to see that Standard British English is preserved to a greater extent in English-speaking places outside Britain, despite the on-going indigenisation of this global language.
Reviews / Votes
"Faced with English language competence problems of Cameroon Learners of English, Miriam Ayafor undertakes an insightful systematic error analysis of their English language performance which indicates that there is a grammar problem that undermines effective competence-performance interaction proficiency. Remediation, according to the author, will require an appropriate pedagogic methodology predicated on, inter alia, 'the teaching of grammar rules followed by corrections'. This bold position is patently at variance with the principal tenets of the popular communicative competence approach, but is informed by putative empirical evidence from the study. While there may be no guarantee of unanimity with respect to all aspects of proposals made, the work, by virtue of the importance of the thematic and seriousness of purpose, makes compelling reading for all language teachers and specialists in Applied Linguistics."Professor Beban Sammy ChumbowEmeritus Professor of Language and Linguistics"The uniqueness of this must-read lies in the scientific rigour with which Dr Miriam Ayafor captures and unmasks the dismal competences and performances of Cameroonian speakers of English. She integrates modern and traditional theories and practices in highlighting 'The Grammar Problem in Higher Education in Cameroon'. This is a longitudinal study that assiduously, pithily and inter-disciplinarily diagnoses, treats and assesses the fallen standard of English in Cameroon and beyond within the framework of 'New Englishes'. It should be the companion of any conscientious educational policy maker, scholar, researcher, student, English language teacher, English language teacher trainers and the public at large."Dr Carlous Muluh NkwetisamaHead of the Department of English, University of Maroua, CameroonMore details
Edition
Unabridged edition
Language
English
Place of publication
Newcastle upon Tyne
United Kingdom
Target group
College/higher education
Professional and scholarly
Edition type
Unabridged edition
Product notice
With dust jacket
Dimensions
Height: 212 mm
Width: 148 mm
ISBN-13
978-1-4438-7269-0 (9781443872690)
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Schweitzer Classification
Person
Dr Miriam Ayafor received a BA degree from Yaounde University, an MA from Leeds University, and a PhD from Ulster University. She is presently full-time Senior Lecturer of English Language and Sociolinguistics in the University of Yaounde 1, Cameroon. She is interested in research into the falling standards of English, literacy problems among young educated people, and Pidgins and Creoles.