Incorporating Global Citizenship in the ESL Classroom: Can We Achieve both Global Citizenship and English Learning?

Abstract

This paper explores the integration of Global Citizenship Education (GCE) within English as a Second Language (ESL) classrooms, examining the potential for achieving both global citizenship awareness and English language proficiency. Through the adoption of a transformative pedagogy, we implemented an innovative English GCE method that emphasizes critical thinking, cultural understanding, and social responsibility. A comprehensive questionnaire survey was conducted alongside Coh-Metrix analysis to assess the impact of this approach on students’ global citizenship awareness and English language skills. Results indicate a notable enhancement in both areas, demonstrating that the incorporation of global citizenship themes in ESL instruction not only fosters linguistic development but also cultivates a sense of global responsibility among learners. This paper contributes to the ongoing discourse on effective ESL teaching strategies and the vital role of education in promoting global citizenship in an increasingly interconnected world.

Presenters

Cissy Li
Principal Lecturer, Language Centre, HKBU, Hong Kong

Details

Presentation Type

Paper Presentation in a Themed Session

Theme

Learning in Higher Education

KEYWORDS

ESL/EFL, GLOBAL CTIZENSHIP EDUCATION, HIGHER EDUCATION