IMPROVING ELEMENTARY SCHOOL TEACHERS' COMPETENCIES THROUGH CREATIVE ENGLISH LEARNING MENTORING IN BULUKUMBA DISTRICT

Abstract

English language instruction in primary schools still faces several challenges, particularly regarding teachers' pedagogical competence, limited use of communicative methods, a lack of confidence in speaking and pronunciation, and a scarcity of interactive learning media. This community service program aimed to assist primary school teachers in designing English learning activities that are active, creative, communicative, and enjoyable. The program was conducted at SDN 27 Matekko, Gantarang District, Bulukumba Regency, on April 11, 2026, involving 43 teachers from 43 primary schools. Implementation methods included a one-day workshop, material presentations, discussions, hands-on practice, teaching simulations, the use of a guidebook, and follow-up mentoring via teaching practice videos submitted through Google Forms. Results showed 100% participant attendance. Additionally, the guidebook "Creative Strategies for Teaching English in Primary Schools" served as a practical resource, and 32 out of 43 participants (74.42%) submitted teaching practice videos. The program contributed to strengthening teachers' understanding of activity-based English teaching strategies, the use of simple learning media, and the implementation of more communicative teaching methods. Future programs are recommended to incorporate pre- and post-test instruments, structured video assessment rubrics, and sustained mentoring to measure the program's impact more objectively.

Keywords: primary-level English teaching, primary school teachers, teacher training, communicative learning, community service