A Sociopolitical Agenda for TESOL Teacher Education

Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL) is a field that requires continuous development and engagement with the sociopolitical milieu. However, teacher education activities often focus on best practices and technical training, neglecting the sociopolitical dimensions of the field. This volume highlights the sociopolitical dimensions of TESOL teacher education, emphasizing the need for reflexive practitioners and negotiation of political struggles and social injustice.

Format: Hardback
Length: 208 pages
Publication date: 02 November 2023
Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing PLC

Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL) is a dynamic field that requires language teachers to continuously develop and stay informed about the sociopolitical context in which they operate. While most teacher education activities aim to adhere to perceived best practices, they often overlook the need for reflexivity and the negotiation of political struggles and social injustices. This volume seeks to address this gap by highlighting the sociopolitical dimensions of TESOL teacher education.

In Part 1, the authors introduce the theoretical foundations of the sociopolitical agenda proposed by this volume. They explore the role of power dynamics, social inequalities, and neoliberal policies in shaping TESOL teacher education. By building on these theories, Part 2 takes the proposed agenda further by examining it in real-world TESOL teacher education contexts characterized by power imbalances and neoliberally influenced educational injustices.

The authors argue that a socially situated understanding of TESOL teacher education is essential for preparing teachers to address the complex challenges they face in their classrooms. They emphasize the importance of recognizing the political implications of language policies, curriculum development, and teaching practices and the need to challenge dominant narratives and promote equity and social justice.

Through a combination of theoretical insights, case studies, and practical examples, this volume provides a comprehensive exploration of the sociopolitical dimensions of TESOL teacher education. It offers valuable insights for language teachers, teacher educators, and policymakers interested in promoting inclusive and equitable education for all learners.

Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781350262843