THE ROLE OF INNOVATIVE METHODS IN TEACHING ENGLISH AS A FOREIGN LANGUAGE

Abstract

English occupies an important place in education, science, professional communication and international cooperation. For this reason, teachers of English as a foreign or second language increasingly need methods that develop not only grammatical knowledge but also communicative competence, motivation, learner autonomy and confidence. This article examines the role of innovative methods in teaching English and compares them with traditional teacher-centered approaches. The paper focuses on the pedagogical use of mobile devices, online dictionaries, authentic films, debate, conversation clubs and music-based activities. The discussion shows that these tools can enrich the language classroom when they are selected according to learners' level, learning objectives and classroom conditions. Innovative methods should not be used as decoration or entertainment only; they should create meaningful communication, encourage active participation and support the development of listening, speaking, vocabulary and intercultural awareness. The article concludes that a balanced combination of traditional and modern methods can make English lessons more effective, inclusive and learner-centered.