The eclectic approach to teaching english as a foreign language

Abstract

The purpose of this research synthesis is to explore and to analyze the effects of the eclectic approach on teaching EFL. Twenty articles were selected for the analysis. According to the inclusion and exclusion criteria of the study, the articles had to be empirical studies published from 2012 and on and related to EFL teaching and learning. The results of the study show that eclecticism has positive effects for teachers and students since it is flexible, considers the different learning styles and multiple intelligences of all students, and triggers dynamic classes. Nevertheless, this approach has its limitations. For instance, it does not offer guidance for the teachers to select what approaches, methods, or techniques meet students' needs. Finally, due to the lack of studies of eclecticism in Latin American countries, further research on the effects of the eclectic approach to teaching EFL in this context is suggested.