Exploring the Uncharted Land: Narrative Inquiry Into Chinese University English for Specific Purposes Teachers' Transformative Learning

• In Event: Teachers' Narratives Exploring Changing Landscapes

Abstract

English for General Purpose (EGP) is a required element within K-12 instruction and higher education in China focusing on fixed sets of grammar and vocabulary, not English for Specific Purposes (ESP) instruction, linking English with disciplinary language. This study investigates Chinese tertiary-level ESP teachers’ deep learning and transformative experiences. Development paths of six ESP teachers were followed in terms of their anxiety along role switch from EGP to ESP, their identity dialogue and emotion change during this transformative learning. Findings show that ESP teachers undergo tremendous identities and emotions changes in this uncharted land of ESP instruction. In addition, collaboration with other content area teachers and institutional stakeholders plays a pivotal role that facilitates teacher’s transformation.

Author

• Fang Gao, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University