English language teacher training for minority-dominated regions in Xinjiang: current practice and challenges

Geographical distribution has greatly influenced local schools’ educational modes. A substantial number of minority groups currently reside in southern Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region (XUAR), where there is lack of educational resources. The university’s School of Foreign Languages is responsible for training English language teachers. In terms of the participating students’ language proficiency relative to Putonghua, minority language, and English, Putonghua is the mother tongue of the Han students: they use it fluently, having been raised and educated through it since birth. The geographical distribution of ethnic groups in comparatively small communities influences the quality of language education in local schools. Reforms could encompass curriculum design, language teaching and learning, the physical environment, and staff recruitment. (publisher's website)