Professional Ethics for Language Teachers: Power Dynamics in the Language Classroom

Professional Ethics for Language Teachers

This unit explores the ethical dimensions specific to the field of language teaching. As language educators often work across cultures, values, and identities, their professional responsibilities extend beyond instructional goals. In this unit, you will examine key ethical considerations such as cultural sensitivity, power relations in the classroom, and the challenges of teaching culturally or politically sensitive content. Through case studies and reflective activities, you will be invited to think critically about your role as an ethical language teacher and develop strategies for navigating real-world dilemmas with professionalism and integrity.

4. Power Dynamics in the Language Classroom

Teachers inherently hold power in the classroom. Ethical teaching requires being mindful of:
Equity in participation and grading
Language of authority (native vs. non-native speaker perceptions)
Gender, race, and age as factors in classroom interaction