This study investigates classroom teaching of oral English taught by Native English-Speaking Teachers (hereafter NESTs). This is done through integration of quantitative and qualitative methods of analysis involving six NESTs teaching oral English classes in two language training centres in Cixi, China. The study begins with an evaluation of previous studies on oral English teaching, issues related to NESTs as well as related theoretical frameworks, such as Communicative English Teaching. Through student and teacher surveys, observations of teaching and follow-up face-to-face interviews, a picture emerges of how NESTs deliver oral English classes. This study concludes that while NESTs offer certain advantages for the teaching of oral English, NESTs also experience a number of distinct challenges which cannot be overlooked and can be perceived as disadvantages for the teaching of oral English in local Chinese contexts. The implications of this study involve a discussion as to how the teaching of oral English skills can be improved and enhanced in local contexts in China.
 

Oral English Teaching; Native English-speaking Teachers; Local Language Training Centers; Cixi,China