A systematic review of the eclectic approach application in language teaching

Abstract

PurposeThis study aimed at providing a systematic review of the research conducted on the application of the eclectic approach in language teaching since 2016.Design/methodology/approachThe articles have been selected from seven renowned databases (i.e. EBSCO, Online Library, Scopus, ScienceDirect, Sage Journal Online, Education Resources Information Center, and Web of Science). The number of total articles identified in the initial research was 432, out of this number, only 47 articles were selected for the review using predefined inclusion criteria. The selected articles have been analyzed and coded into different categories: research design, location, context, level of education, learning outcomes and pedagogical implications.FindingsThe review analysis showed the major trends and outcomes in the eclectic approach topic. It also provided useful information for stakeholders regarding the application of the eclectic approach in language teaching.Originality/valueThe study contributes to some unaddressed points identified in the selected articles, and it recommends some points to be considered in future research.