Exploring the Role of Spirituality in the Ecology of Language Learning

Authors

Teresa Lin, Montgomery College

Keywords

Christian English Teachers, ecology, faith, language learning, spirituality

Abstract

With the presence of many Christian missionaries in the field of TESOL, numerous educators have raised concerns about the ethical issues surrounding evangelistic outreach via English language teaching (ELT). Christian English Teachers (CETs) in the field of TESOL have faced criticism for manipulation of student-teacher relationships, unethical religious coercion, and cultural insensitivity. Current positivist views render religious discussions in the classroom as detrimental to ELT. While proselytizing via ELT is a serious ethical issue, the backlash against religion and spiritual beliefs is also quite alarming. Disregard for the spiritual underpinnings motivating and influencing the way students learn limits how complex we perceive second language learning to be. This article examines how spirituality can positively benefit learning in the second language classroom. It also seeks to raise awareness and highlight the need for more research on how faith and spirituality influence the second language classroom.

Recommended Citation

Lin, Teresa (2015) "Exploring the Role of Spirituality in the Ecology of Language Learning," International Journal of Christianity and English Language Teaching: Vol. 2, Article 6.
Available at: https://digitalcommons.biola.edu/ijc-elt/vol2/iss1/6