On 17 November 2021 (Wednesday), the Scientific Research Committee organized a webinar titled Capturing the Emotional Experiences of English as Foreign Language University Teachers: A Critical Perspective presented by Dr. Eman Alzaanin, Assistant Professor in Applied Linguistics, Faculty of Languages & Translation, King Khalid University, Abha. The presenter started her talk by informing the audience that this research study (which was a very refreshing one for the audience) was her most recent one, and hardly any scholarly articles can be found on her research topic.
In the presentation, the speaker oriented the audience with her research motivation. Some thought-provoking observations were made where she said that teachers usually tend to hide their emotions which affects the teachers' approach in the classroom and their relationship with the students. Some quotes were displayed, which showed that the emotions of the L2 teachers had not been discussed so widely by most researchers and theorists. The theoretical framework, the context of the study, participants, data collection, data analysis, key findings, and the implications of the study-everything was highlighted in detail. The key findings of the research study showed that ''Teaching is an emotional practice,'' and some issues with the students could hamper teachers' passion for teaching. The positive emotions of the EFL teachers, such as happiness and pride, emerged in the study several times. On the other hand, the negative emotions of the teachers such as '' anger, frustration, anxiety, sadness, and demoralization'' were also pointed out.
The presentation came to an end by drawing the attention of the program leaders and policymakers to provide teachers with continuous professional development activities that can better the emotional competence of the teachers.
In this webinar, Dr. Hana Al Hudaithy graced the occasion, and faculty members and SRC members participated in a lively discussion with the presenter.
Date: 11/20/2021
Source: Shanjida Halim, Member, SRC