English in Iran:

English language teaching (ELT) in Iran has gone through different phases, influenced by the political, social, and cultural changes in the country. The history of ELT in Iran can be divided into three main periods: under the Qajar dynasty (1836-1925), under the Pahlavi dynasty (1925-1979), and under the Islamic Republic (1979-present).

Under the Qajar dynasty, English was introduced to Iran by American missionaries, who established schools and colleges that offered English courses along with other subjects. However, English was not widely taught or learned, as Persian was the dominant language of education, administration, and literature. Moreover, the traditional religious schools (maktabs) did not include any foreign languages in their curriculum, and the majority of the population was illiterate and poor.

Under the Pahlavi dynasty, English gained more importance and popularity, as Iran modernized and opened up to the Western world. The first national curriculum for English was developed in 1939, and English became a compulsory subject in secondary schools and universities. English was also used as a medium of instruction in some higher education institutions, such as the University of Tehran and the National University of Iran. English was seen as a tool for scientific and technological advancement, as well as a symbol of prestige and progress.

Under the Islamic Republic, English faced some challenges and controversies, especially after the 1979 revolution and the Iran-Iraq war. English was associated with Western imperialism and cultural invasion, and some radical groups called for its elimination from the education system. However, English survived and thrived, as the demand for it increased among the Iranian people, who sought to communicate with the global community, access information and knowledge, and pursue personal and professional goals. The Ministry of Education revised the national curriculum for English several times, and introduced new textbooks and methods that aimed to balance the linguistic and cultural aspects of ELT. English also became more available and accessible through private language institutes, satellite TV channels, and the internet.

In conclusion, ELT in Iran has a long and complex history, reflecting the changes and challenges that the country has experienced in the past 100 years. English has played different roles and functions in different historical periods, and has been influenced by various factors, such as politics, religion, culture, and economy. Today, English is widely taught and learned in Iran, and is considered as an important and valuable skill for personal and social development.