Journeys Towards Intercultural Capability in Language Classrooms: Voices from Students, Teachers and Researchers

This book explores how five teacher educators collaborated with five teachers of languages other than English in pre-secondary schools in New Zealand to develop students' intercultural capability. It discusses the findings using classroom observations, reflective interviews, and focus groups, highlighting breakthrough and growth for teachers and students. It also reflects on the lessons learned and speculates on the roles of teacher education in achieving intercultural capability in language classrooms.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 182 pages
Publication date: 17 May 2022
Publisher: Springer Verlag, Singapore

This open-access book offers a comprehensive account of a two-year research project conducted by five teacher educators alongside five teachers of languages other than English in pre-secondary schools in New Zealand. Their collaborative goal was to enhance students' intercultural competence within the framework of learning a new language. The participating schools represented a typical segment of the pre-secondary sector in New Zealand, with teachers possessing limited experience in language teaching and limited understanding of how to incorporate the intercultural dimension into their language classrooms. Similarly, the students were primarily in the initial stages of acquiring a new language. The book delves into the findings derived through a diverse array of data collection methods, including classroom observations, reflective interviews with teachers, and focus groups with students. It showcases instances of remarkable progress and growth for both teachers and students, while also shedding light on the challenges and tensions encountered throughout the project. Furthermore, it reflects on the valuable lessons learned and speculates on the crucial roles that teacher education must fulfill to promote the attainment of intercultural capability in language classrooms, both in New Zealand and on a global scale.

This book holds significant appeal to a wide range of stakeholders within the field of education. It provides readers with an insightful perspective on the opportunities and challenges associated with working alongside teachers through an action-research model. By exploring the intricacies of this collaboration, the book offers valuable insights into the potential for enhancing intercultural capability and fostering a more inclusive learning environment.

Moreover, the book serves as a valuable resource for educators, policymakers, and educators seeking to develop their understanding of the role of teacher education in fostering intercultural competence. It provides a comprehensive framework for understanding the complexities involved in teaching and learning across cultures, and offers practical strategies for promoting intercultural understanding and sensitivity in language classrooms.

In conclusion, this open-access book offers a rich and insightful exploration of the intersection of teacher education, intercultural competence, and language learning. It provides valuable insights into the experiences of teacher educators and teachers as they navigate the complexities of teaching and learning across cultures, and offers practical strategies for promoting intercultural understanding and sensitivity in language classrooms. By fostering a deeper understanding of these issues, the book contributes to the ongoing dialogue on education reform and innovation, and plays a crucial role in shaping the future of education.

Weight: 308g
Dimension: 235 x 155 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9789811909931
Edition number: 1st ed. 2022