Join Helen McAllister for ‘Beyond Proficiency: Fostering Intercultural Dialogue in the EAP Classroom’, a session for practitioners navigating the complexities of the modern, multicultural university.
Room A607, PolyU
Thursday 5 March, 3-4pm.
In this session, we will explore how linguistic and cultural diversity can be reframed from being a potential barrier into a powerful educational resource. Drawing on the pedagogical framework of "thinking through making", we will discuss the use of "alternative learning spaces" and creative visual processes - such as model building and zine-making - to help students navigate cultural differences and reduce the natural anxiety of adjusting to new environments.
Participants will gain insights into fostering truly inclusive learning environments that promote student validation, compassion and a sense of belonging.
Please read Why UK universities should support all students in developing their intercultural communication skills before the session.
Helen McAllister is a freelance consultant on language and intercultural communications education and a BALEAP Accreditation Scheme assessor of English for Academic Purposes provision in higher education. She was previously Associate Dean and Director of the Language Centre at University of the Arts London, has worked for the British Council, including on their accreditation scheme, and taught English in five different countries. She is a Principal Fellow of Advance HE.
