126231 VK MEd 01A/B: VK Specific Issues in Language Learning and Teaching (2022S)

The general pedagogic guidelines in Austrian curricula embrace inclusion as a pedagogic aim, in educating pupils towards solidarity, and pedagogic practice, in creating a supportive learning environment for all. This course will engage with these principles through a focus on diversity in English language education. Diversity is here conceptualised broadly, and embraces learners with a variety of national and cultural backgrounds as well as those with specific learning differences, including being neurodiverse (e.g., learners with AD(H)D, dyslexia or autism). This course addresses a twofold aim with regard to diversity: firstly, increasing learners’ awareness of the need to select and create teaching materials that are mindful of representing individuals and groups in an appropriate and respectful manner and, secondly, enabling students to fruitfully engage with the existing, complex diversity in an ELT classroom practice through understanding and applying inclusive ELT materials and practices.
In this course, we will explore the theory and practice of diversity in an ELT context by focussing on
• questions of representation in teaching materials, including means of analysing such representation
• inclusive classroom practices particularly suited for ELT
• diversity as a topical issue for classroom discussion
Students will be able to…
• better understand diversity in Austrian English language classrooms
• incorporate principles of inclusion into their classrooms
• critically analyse course materials with regard to representation
• design inclusive tasks and materials
• critically discuss the theory-reality divide of inclusion in ELT
Pair or group work activities as well as interactive and creative formats will enable students to participate frequently in class discussions and are meant to provide for a motivating and stimulating atmosphere in class.