ABSTRACT
This chapter highlights the contextual factors that are likely to affect English language classrooms, and, indeed, the variety of English that is taught, in any given English Language Teaching (ELT) environment. As Stern notes, at the centre of the framework is the particular language teaching and learning situation. It outlines key debates surrounding the growth of English in the world, and examines how the debates might affect perceptions of what English is, and, hence, what variety of English might or should be taught and learned in specific ELT contexts. The chapter considers the place of ‘real’ or ‘authentic’ English in the language classroom. It examines how, in English for Specific Purposes contexts, an explicit focus on learners’ specific language needs affects the type of English taught and learned, and explores the dilemmas this raises for ELT professionals. The chapter helps the readers to reflect upon whether and how these discussions may be relevant to their own professional context.
