An insight into stakeholders‘ perceptions of a quality language learning experience within the ELT industry in Malta

Abstract

The English Language Teaching (ELT) industry in Malta promotes the island as a quality English language learning destination due to it being the only European country with legislation that regulates the ELT sector. Hence, since Malta is such a popular destination for English language learners worldwide, quality and excellence in the academic programmes offered is the quintessential goal that all local ELT schools work towards, to uphold the country‘s evergrowing reputation in the ELT market worldwide. Therefore, research on what constitutes a quality learning experience in Malta is both essential and beneficial to the industry. This qualitative study explores the perceptions of major stakeholders involved within the ELT industry in Malta with regards to a quality English language learning experience. In order to understand how different stakeholders address the concept of quality, semi-structured interviews were conducted with representatives of FELTOM, the ELT Council, and the ELT school where the study was conducted, along with focus groups with students and teachers. It is to be understood that school owners attribute quality primarily to the financial standpoint of the school, while school management gives most importance to the voice of the student, which is seen as the most important indicator of quality. Teachers and students similarly attribute quality to meeting student expectations and achieving learning outcomes. Ultimately, licencing and accreditation bodies attribute quality to having standards which show commitment and benchmark quality. This study aims to bring to light the different views of stakeholders with regards to a quality English language learning experience in Malta.