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When the native is also a non-native: “retrodicting” the complexity of language teacher cognition

Aslan, E. ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-4174-5493 (2015) When the native is also a non-native: “retrodicting” the complexity of language teacher cognition. Canadian Modern Language Review, 71 (3). pp. 244-269. ISSN 1710-1131

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To link to this item DOI: 10.3138/cmlr.2575

Abstract/Summary

Abstract: The impact of native (NS) and non-native speaker (NNS) identities on second or foreign language teachers’ cognition and practices in the classroom has mainly been investigated in ESL/EFL contexts. Using complexity theory as a framework, this case study attempts to fill the gap in the literature by presenting a foreign language teacher in the United States who teaches French as a NS and German as a NNS teacher at the college level. Specifically, the study explores the interface between NS/NNS identities, teacher cognition, practice, and professional identity. The retrodictive qualitative analysis of semi-structured interviews and classroom observations reveals that the participant teacher’s NS French and NNS German identities influenced her teacher cognition, specifically in beliefs about teaching grammar. In addition, previous language learning experiences affect current decision-making processes in teaching. In terms of teaching practice, the dual NS French and NNS German identity affects teaching practice in the formal areas of language, target culture knowledge and awareness, teaching style, and perceptions about language varieties. Professional identity is construed here as being the mediator of target second language (L2) cultures in the classroom. The implications of teacher cognition as a complex system for L2 teaching and teacher education are discussed.

Item Type:Article
Refereed:Yes
Divisions:Arts, Humanities and Social Science > School of Literature and Languages > Languages and Cultures > French
Arts, Humanities and Social Science > School of Literature and Languages > Languages and Cultures > German
Arts, Humanities and Social Science > School of Literature and Languages > English Language and Applied Linguistics
Arts, Humanities and Social Science > International Study and Language Institute (ISLI)
Arts, Humanities and Social Science > Language Text and Power
Arts, Humanities and Social Science > Identities
Arts, Humanities and Social Science > Institute of Education > Improving Equity and Inclusion through Education
Arts, Humanities and Social Science > Institute of Education > Language and Literacy in Education
ID Code:67268
Publisher:Toronto University Press

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