The primary goal of teachers of English as a second language (ESL) or English as a foreign language
(EFL) is to develop desired levels of English language communication skills among their nonnative
English speaking students. But for most students of ESL or EFL, the goal of acquiring
desired levels of English language skills is very likely not an end in itself. Instead, learning English
is a means towards other personal and social goals. The students’ goals may relate to personal
dreams of traveling to English speaking countries and experiencing these other cultures. For
others, the goals may relate to qualifying for certain jobs or for professional advancement. For
many students, acquiring English language skills is a means towards improving their learning in
the various subjects in school.