Overview

In this workshop, we look at ESOL instruction through the lens of intercultural awareness to identify beliefs about language learning and teaching, the roles of the teacher and student in the classroom, and the cultural backgrounds and educational goals of our learners.

This workshop is one of six based on the MA Professional Standards for Teachers of Adult ESOL.

    Audience

    This professional development activity/course is designed for:

  • All ESOL teachers and program directors but particularly those who believe they have learned all there is to learn about intercultural awareness
Description

For ESOL teachers, intercultural awareness leads to a deeper understanding of the impact that values, beliefs, perceptions, and behavioral norms can have on language teaching and learning. The activities of this 5-hour workshop focus on increasing your intercultural awareness so that you are more equipped to facilitate learners transitioning from their home cultures and languages to those of the United States and prepare them for college and careers.  

Following the face-to-face workshop is an online companion course to support you in applying what you’ve learned. The companion course is facilitated by the workshop presenter, and participation is expected.

    Learning Objectives

    Upon completion of this professional development activity/course, you will be able to:

  • Distinguish between surface culture and deep culture, and explain how these aspects might arise and be addressed in ESOL classes
    Connect learners’ and your cultural beliefs with observable behaviors in classroom interactions to negotiate differences between cultural expectations
    Identify and reflect on your personal cultural beliefs and expectations that may influence your instructional decisions as a teacher and impact student learning
    Use teaching techniques and activities that integrate learners’ identities as multilingual and multicultural individuals, while using immigrant experiences as a context for language skill development
    Plan action steps to apply principles of intercultural awareness in your teaching practice
Presenter(s) / Facilitator(s)
Prerequisites

You are encouraged to watch the online presentation Introduction to the Professional Standards for Teachers of Adult ESOL before attending any of the workshops based on the professional standards. You can register for this presentation through the SABES Calendar.  

Date
09/30/2016 - 9:30 am to 09/30/2016 - 3:30 pm
Location

The Immigrant Learning Center
442 Main St.
Malden, MA 02148
United States

PD Center
SABES English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) Curriculum & Instruction PD Center
Topic Area
Civics and Citizenship
ESOL/English Learners
Close Date