Challenges of Teaching and
Learning English in Rural Areas of Rajkot District
Divyeshkumar D. Bhatt¹, Bhakti
Sakhiya²
ABSTRACT
This study focuses on the challenges faced in
learning and teaching English in rural schools of Rajkot district of
Gujarat. In the case of Gujarat, the rural students’ incompetence in
English and their fear around it is a well-known fact. The students
in rural areas still struggle to learn it effectively. The main aim
of this research is to understand the problems faced by both
students and teachers and to find possible ways to improve the
situation.
The study is based on a survey method, using questionnaires given to
52 students and 47 teachers from rural schools. The findings show
that students face several difficulties such as lack of confidence,
fear of speaking in English, limited vocabulary, and very little
exposure to English outside the classroom. Most students use their
mother tongue in daily life, which makes it harder for them to
practice English.
Teachers also face challenges like large class sizes, limited
teaching resources, and lack of proper training in modern teaching
methods. In many classrooms, English is still taught through
translation and memorization instead of practical use and
communication.
The study also highlights that family background, lack of exposure
to English at home, and, as a result, students develop a grudge
against it. Overall, the research suggests that better teaching
methods, more opportunities for practice, and a supportive
environment can help improve English learning in rural areas.
Keywords: Communication, pedagogy, syllabus, textbooks, learning,
comprehension, proficiency.
