Session 1 – Leadership and Change Management in ELT
Room D
NESTs and NNESTs: Debunking the myths to rethink, reshape and redefine excellence in ELT
Download the Presentation (PDF)
Summary
In 2023, out of the 1.5 billion English speakers worldwide, the majority are English as an additional language (EAL) speakers, surpassing the 380 million native English speakers. Consequently, there has been a significant rise in the number of English language teachers who speak English as an additional language (international educators), outnumbering those who speak English as a first language. Yet, in the TESOL profession, international educators may still find it challenging to have their skills, knowledge and professional experience recognised by key stakeholders – students, fellow teachers, and providers.
This session aims to address common perceptions surrounding the debate between native English-speaking teachers (NEST) and non-native English-speaking teachers (NNEST). It will present a diverse range of studies that challenge these perceptions, showcasing the strengths, value, and contributions of international educators to their students’ learning experiences. The session seeks to provide TESOL leaders with strategies to reconsider and reshape perceptions of international educators, ultimately redefining excellence in English Language Teaching (ELT) to better align with the diverse linguistic landscape of the modern world.
Presenter: Dr Germana Eckert
Bio
Germana Eckert is a specialist in language teaching methodology and lectures in the TESOL and Applied Linguistics program at the University of Technology, Sydney. She has worked in Australia and overseas as a TESOL teacher, curriculum writer, manager and teacher-trainer. Germana’s research interests are in language practices in educational settings.
Presenter: Dr Julie Lim
Bio
Julie Lim is lecturer in the TESOL and Applied Linguistics program at the University of Technology, Sydney. She has taught English on degree and pathway programs in both EFL and ESL settings, in addition to working in English language testing and administration. She currently teaches subjects relating to Academic English and multilingualism.
