Arguably the whole point of education is to effect change in what people know and are able to do. Globalization has contributed to a common perception worldwide of the need to introduce changes to the teaching and learning of languages. The success of many attempts to do so has been limited by insufficient consideration of implementation contexts. Understanding Language Classroom Contexts explores and illustrates how what happens in any (language) classroom is influenced by (and can be an influence on) the contexts in which it is situated. A clear understanding of these influences is thus the starting point for planning effective change. The book considers many visible and invisible features of the multiple layers of any context, and provides a framework for understanding the types of factors that may influence whether changes (planned by a teacher or externally initiated) are likely to be successful. The book will help teachers (and educational managers or change planners outside the classroom) to understand why their classrooms are as they are and so to make informed decisions about what can or cannot (or not easily) be changed, and suggests how any changes might be appropriately managed.
Les mer
Introduction 1. Components of Contexts 2. Exploring Culture 3. Language and Languages in Education 4. From Cultures to Methods 5. From Methods to Approaches 6. Teachers and Learners: As Part of and Creators of their Context 7. Teachers and Learners: As 'Products of their Context 8. Schools and Classrooms: Physical and Cultural Contexts 9. Planning and Implementing Classroom Change 10. Conclusions: On Understanding Language Classroom Contexts and the Process of Change Index
Les mer
This volume discusses the subtle interconnectedness of the language classroom and change. By means of thought-provoking questions and tasks, the authors repeatedly turn their monologue into a dialogue with the readers to help them understand that they are not only the products but also the creators of their classroom contexts. While specifically directed at teachers of English, this book is an eye-opener for anyone who has a stake in education. And who doesn't?
Les mer
Guide enabling ELT practitioners to understand their context and its influence on the language teaching-learning process and the implementation of change in classrooms.
Explores both visible and invisible features of context in language teaching

Produktdetaljer

ISBN
9781441198372
Publisert
2013-04-11
Utgiver
Vendor
Bloomsbury Academic USA
Vekt
531 gr
Høyde
234 mm
Bredde
156 mm
Aldersnivå
U, P, 05, 06
Språk
Product language
Engelsk
Format
Product format
Innbundet
Antall sider
248

Biographical note

Angi Malderez is a freelance education consultant, and Honorary Senior Fellow of the School of Education, University of Leeds, UK. Martin Wedell is Senior Lecturer and Head of International Education at the University of Leeds, UK.