Sessions

Learning about teaching through foreign language learning

What is the impact of learning a foreign language on EFL teachers? This presentation looks at the advantages and difficulties of EFL teachers learning beginner-level French as a foreign language (FFL). The class was offered to EFL teachers at the same university as a professional development opportunity, and was held twice a week for two semesters. The presenters are the teacher, one of the students, and the class administrator. They examine the results of student questionnaires and interviews which highlight the successes and challenges the students reported from learning FFL. The results indicate that the time commitments are the biggest impediment, while the benefits include French language learning, team bonding and insights into how it is to be a language student. Based on these benefits, the class administrator presents foreign language learning as an approach to EFL teacher development. By exploring the impact of EFL teachers learning FFL, this presentation contributes to the discussion on beliefs about learning, student empathy and faculty development.