《Globalization_Multiple_Intelligences_and_ELT_in_Singapore》.pdf

Malay sian Journal Of EL T Research ISSN: 1511-8002 Vol. 5, 2009 Globalization, Multiple Intelligences, and ELT in Singapore Phyllis Ghim-Lian Chew Nany ang Technological University Abstract There are two parts to this paper – one introductory and theoretical: and the other “applied”, and it is hoped that these two halves will contribute to a more complete understanding of the role and significance of Multiple Intelligence in English language education in Singapore. The first part of the paper will chronicle the rise of MI amidst the backdrop of globalization and the socio-political background of Singapore in the mid- 1990’s. The second part of the paper will focus on the model’s application in four language classrooms in Singapore in 2004-2005. The paper concludes with a critical discussion of the strengths and weaknesses of Multiple Intelligence, and its sustainability and long-term viability in relation to national, pedagogical and language methodological issues in Singapore. Globalization, Multip le Intelligences, And EL T In Singap ore 28 Introduction Globalization has brought in its wake a general destabilization affecting all societies, vast population mobility, the emergence of multi-cultural societies in many places, and an exponential increase in human interaction. Such trends are fast redefining traditional parameters of culture and identity. The capital market policies accompanying globalization have expanded the role of trans-national corporations (TNCs). These TNCs own production facilities outside their home countries and coordinate their activities with many enti