The common European framework of reference and its relevance to the teaching of German as a foreign language : attitudes and perspectives

Abstract

The present research was inspired by the introduction of the Common European Framework: of Reference for Languages (CEFR} in various countries, issued in 2001 by the Council of Europe. The implementation of this framework beyond our shores was studied in terms of its historical background, also taking into consideration various aspects of teaching, learning and assessment of modern foreign languages. Perceptions and attitudes towards the CEFR in general and its implementation in the Maltese setting in particular, were investigated. A number of stakeholders within the local education sector as well as teachers of German as a foreign language across the island( s} participated in this research study. The main findings demonstrated that the majority of respondents are aware of what the CEFR entails in general. However, an in-depth knowledge of its mechanisms is absent in most of the responses. Consequently pre- and in-service training concerning the adoption and adaptation of the CEFR was constantly reiterated. Hence, the authors put forward a number of suggestions for the implementation of the framework in the Maltese setting, as well as recommendations for further research. Based on the aforementioned considerations, a pack was collated from various websites and modern textbooks of German as a Foreign Language. This collation includes a sample of (on-line) activities centred on chosen topics at Al and A2 Levels. The collated pack could serve as a future reference and guide for teachers of German while selecting exercises in line with the CEFR.