Modelling an English learning community of practice (CoP) to promote bilingualism

Abstract

This study explores the policies and practices in a community of practice (CoP) called Kampung Bahasa (Language Village) in Indonesia in providing opportunities for Indonesians and foreigners to learn foreign languages using a ROADMAPPING framework. As learning a foreign language is such a multifaceted process, it is a challenge for foreign language learning institution to assure the learning objectives are achieved. This study employed qualitative data obtained through interviews, focus group discussion, and document analysis involving course owners, students, and the forum for course owners at Kampung Bahasa (Language Village) in Kediri East Java. It is found that the policy in language learning is formulated in coexistence among community, language institution, and the local government with cultural and religious values involved. Foreign language learning is designed to meet students’ various needs with creative methods inside and outside classrooms, provided by conducive and supportive foreign language learning environment, to effectively learn foreign languages. It is, however, important that quality assurance regarding teacher qualification and student language competence be enacted for better quality language learning.