The Use of Cognitive Academic Language Proficiency (CALP) Skills in English Language Curricula of Sri Lankan Universities

Abstract

It is a well-known fact that the Sri Lankan graduates and undergraduates are often criticized by the society and specifically by the private sector employers for not possessing required skills such as critical thinking, logical thinking, independent thinking, problem-solving skills and ratiocination skills. Those skills, namely Cognitive Academic Language Proficiency (CALP) skills should be developed among undergraduates in order to be competent employees following graduation. CALP, a theory designed by Jim Cummins (1979) emphasizes the importance of enhancing the above-mentioned higher order skills in the learner. This research attempts to determine if the tertiary level English language curricula in Sri Lanka have given attention in developing the CALP skills among undergraduates. The aim of the research was to find out the focus given on developing CALP skills among Sri Lankan undergraduates at tertiary level, and the objectives were to examine the existing English language curricula of different Sri Lankan universities and to find out the type of skills developed through the existing tertiary level English Language curricula in Sri Lanka. The English language curricula of 6 state universities including 8 faculties were examined in terms of ILOs, course outline (structure) and content. The data was analyzed using thematic analysis. It was found that the English language curricula of state universities in Sri Lanka mainly focus on developing the 4 English language skills in addition to improving vocabulary and presentation skills. They also focus on English for Professional Purposes (EPP) such as medical English, business communication and technical jargon. Developing higher order CALP skills was not a main focus in the majority of ELT curricula in Sri Lanka. However, it is suggested that such skills could be developed through the existing ELT curricula, through systematically designed activities which enhance not only the four language skills, but also CALP skills.