An Analysis of teacher opinions on factors that increase success in english language teaching

This study aims to examine the issue of foreign language teaching, which has been a state policy since the Tanzimat period, particularly during the period when language studies increased, in the context of factors that increase success in English language education. Despite the various methods and techniques applied in foreign language teaching in Türkiye, as well as the strategies supported by state policies, the desired level of success has not yet been fully achieved. Therefore, it is emphasized that the factors affecting foreign language teaching need to be addressed in a holistic manner. The purpose of the research is to identify the challenges encountered in English language learning and the factors that increase success based on teachers' opinions, and to conduct an in-depth analysis of the factors that are effective in the language teaching process. The study participants consist of 25 English teachers working in Tokat province, selected through purposive sampling. This qualitative research was designed using face to-face interviews and data were collected through a semi-structured interview form developed by the researchers. The research findings are categorized under the themes of "challenges, teaching process, teaching with technology, student-centered learning, motivation, and language-culture connection." According to the teachers' opinions, the biggest challenges were found to be the excessive number of learning outcomes in the curriculum and the curriculum's failure to align with the four skills. Furthermore, it was stated that planning during the teaching process is effective in increasing language success. The use of technology in lessons was emphasized as enriching students' learning processes and increasing their motivation. Among the student-centered learning methods, project-based learning was identified as one of the most effective methods for ensuring retention. It was concluded that motivation in language learning is an important factor in developing students' positive attitudes and increasing their interest, and that adapting the vii language to daily life and establishing cultural connections facilitate learning. According to the research findings, teachers stated that the incompatibility of the learning outcomes with the lesson hours and the same outcomes being set for all types of schools led to difficulties. Additionally, it was noted that planning the lessons in a structured manner not only prevented uncertainty but also made positive contributions to the teaching process. The use of technology enriched students' learning processes, while engaging and culturally contextualized materials supported learning. In conclusion, this research has provided a comprehensive understanding of the factors that increase success in English language teaching and the challenges encountered, highlighting the need to develop effective strategies in language teaching based on teachers' perspectives. The findings of the study offer concrete suggestions for the development of policies and practices in English language teaching. In this context, establishing continuous training programs for teachers' professional development, reorganizing the curriculum in line with the four skills, and expanding the use of technology will contribute to achieving more effective outcomes in language teaching.