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Vol. 3 No. 1 (2026): January

Copyright (c) 2026 Muhammad Mujtaba Sarwary, Abdul Salam Abid

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Exploring Undergraduate English Majors’ Perceptions of the Essential Qualities of a Modern EFL Teacher

https://doi.org/10.62810/jssh.v3i1.254
Muhammad Mujtaba Sarwary
Department of English language and literature, Faculty of foreign languages and Literature, Kabul University, Kabul Afghanistan
Abdul Salam Abid
Master’s Student, M.Ed. TESOL Program, Faculty of Social Sciences, Graduate College, Kabul Education University, Kabul, Afghanistan

Corresponding Author(s) : Muhammad Mujtaba Sarwary

mujtabaarian@gmail.com

Journal of Social Sciences and Humanities, Vol. 3 No. 1 (2026): January

Abstract

This study examined undergraduate students’ perceptions of the essential qualities of a modern English as a Foreign Language (EFL) teacher in the English Department of Kabul University. Using a quantitative survey design, data were collected from 136 students to evaluate five dimensions of teacher competence: professional knowledge, instructional planning, classroom management, assessment practices, and professionalism. The findings revealed that classroom management and professionalism were rated as the most important qualities, followed by instructional planning and assessment, while professional knowledge received comparatively lower emphasis. Students placed greater value on teachers’ ability to manage classrooms effectively, engage learners actively, provide constructive feedback, and use instructional strategies and technology than on subject knowledge alone. These results indicate a shift in students’ priorities from traditional, teacher-centered models toward more learner-centered and practice-oriented approaches. However, the study also acknowledges that learner-centered methods may not be equally applicable to all courses or language components, and a balanced integration of teacher-led and student-centered instruction may be necessary in certain contexts. Overall, the study provides empirical, student-based evidence that can inform EFL teacher education programs, professional development initiatives, and institutional policies aimed at improving the quality of English language teaching in Afghan universities.

Keywords

Competency Modern EFL Teacher Skills Teaching Skills
Sarwary, M. M., & Abid , A. S. (2026). Exploring Undergraduate English Majors’ Perceptions of the Essential Qualities of a Modern EFL Teacher. Journal of Social Sciences and Humanities, 3(1), 64–77. https://doi.org/10.62810/jssh.v3i1.254
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Author biographies is not available.
Received 2025-12-28
Accepted 2026-01-26
Published 2026-01-31
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