ELT Teaching Competencies Rooted in the KASA Framework: An Effective Means to Classroom Success

Abstract: Teaching competencies come in many forms, have likely existed, been expressed, and certainly morphed in myriad ways since the time of the very first classrooms, and, of course, can often depend on both contexts and subjects. For this reason, some degree of simplification is needed, especially for English Language teachers. This comes in the form of five broad, general categories: (1) teachers and teaching, (2) learners and learning, (3) language and culture, (4) self and other, and (5) educational institutions, community, and professional life. Clear articulation is essential, which can be incredibly helpful for ongoing reflective practice and, ultimately, profound professional development. But, these five broad categories are not enough by themselves. KASA, or knowledge, attitude, skills, and awareness are four component parts that can help pinpoint, specify, and allow for deep exploration of each one. Through ongoing (classroom and self) observation, critical analysis, and any needed recalibration, teachers‟ focus, vision, and skills can sharpen and develop in very rich, life-changing ways, which will be to the great benefit of their students. And that is the purpose of this paper: to help understand this valuable educational, teacher tool via explicit explanations and personal examples.

Keywords – competencies, culture, identity, KASA, professional development, reflective practice