Reflection Journal: A basic guideline for non-native EFL teachers to select authentic English from the Web

The importance of using authentic resources for language learning has been emphasized clearly over the years. With the development of World Wide Web, both learners and teachers have access to a wide variety of resources on the web. However, since not all English teachers are native speakers, the guideline as suggested in this study may be useful for non-native teachers.

The three main factors to consider when choosing ‘authentic’ materials are author, audience and time.

Just about anyone who wishes to publish materials online is able to do so these days, therefore checking the origin of the written resources. If the resources are from well-known organizations or people that are known to be native English speakers then can safely assume that the materials are authentic. Materials written to communicate with native speakers will be counted as being authentic. Teachers will find that English texts designed for language learning often lack the naturalness and practical functions of language. As in the case of dictionary updates from various publishers, English language changes in meaning, form, and frequency of use with time. Teachers should insist on using EFL resources that are current.

Even though EFL materials may not be authentic by nature, teachers should choose the appropriate resource materials for their students.