We have so much planning to do......

In her article "Language-in education planning: the use of emergent Web2.0 genres in the south of Italy", Maria Grazia Sindoni (2009) stated that, The University of Messina's Language Centre (CLAM) has done significant research in the area of foreign language instruction with particular emphaisi on ESL programs. They emphasize planning on the micro and macro level for the success of a language program. On the macro level, langauge policies, economic development and political control are factors which are considered (Sindoni, 2009). Micro level planning deals with the actual language programs which are implemented for the benefit of the learner both at the level of instruction and as well as accessiblity in terms of financially affordability (Sindoni, 2009)

In the Caribbean, we too must engage in serious 'planning' in terms of our language development programs. Although the CLAM program in this article addressed the needs of a Soutnern Italian community of learners in particular, administrators here in the Caribbean may use similar strategies for the creation of a succesful language program here. As we are all top aware, many of our students in the Caribbean are fluent in the native Creole language dialects but struggle with expressing themselves in standard English. Although the inability to express oneself in standard English is not reflective of one's intelligence, here in the Caribbean, English is the formal language by which we communicate to the external world in areas such as commerce, development, politics, academia etc. Planning is necessary on all levels if we wish to expereince success in our literacy programs. In Trinidad for example, there are key differences between urban and rural communities which may necessitate particular emphasis on different aspects of language instruction as well as the use of particular technologies. Although it may be hard to believe in such a small country there are notebale differences in phonetics which may affect the way reading development occurs. Students in the rural areas are far less exposed to the language in the banks, modern businesses etc., so they may require programs which use teachnology that enhances dialogue and drama to simulate such situational interactions.....

FOOD FOR THOUGHT.