Mediating Innovation through Language Teacher Education

Pedagogical innovation in language classrooms can be facilitated through language teacher education (LTE), which involves helping practitioners recognize and confront deeply-rooted beliefs and adjust practices through critical reflection. The author's own work as a teacher educator is examined through self-study of teacher education practices, highlighting changes to beliefs and practices as lessons emerged from beginning teachers' engagement with innovative ideas.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 75 pages
Publication date: 10 November 2022
Publisher: Cambridge University Press

This Element explores the role of language teacher education (LTE) in mediating pedagogical innovation within language classrooms. It begins by acknowledging that implementing innovation can be a complex and challenging endeavor. Effective LTE, therefore, is conceptualized as a process that assists practitioners in recognizing and challenging deeply entrenched beliefs and adapting their practices through critical reflection on the potential manifestations of innovation both theoretically and practically.

To facilitate this reflective process, a critically reflective lens is applied to the author's own work as a teacher educator over a period of several years. This research approach is known as self-study of teacher education practices or S-STEP. Through S-STEP, the author examines changes in their beliefs and practices as they emerge from the engagement of beginning teachers with innovative ideas.

The purpose of presenting these changes is to enhance our understanding of how teachers' beliefs and practices related to innovation can be effectively enhanced. By examining the author's journey, readers gain insights into the complexities and nuances involved in fostering pedagogical innovation within language classrooms and the potential for transformative learning experiences for both teachers and students.

Weight: 136g
Dimension: 152 x 228 x 8 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781009124263