ERIC Number: EJ1189641
Record Type: Journal
Publication Date: 2018-Sep
Pages: 17
Abstractor: As Provided
ISBN: N/A
ISSN: ISSN-1056-7941
EISSN: N/A
Enhancing Teaching English as an Additional Language through Playfulness: Seniors (Ethno)Drama Club in Vancouver's Downtown Eastside
Balyasnikova, Natalia; Higgins, Sarah; Hume, Matt
TESOL Journal, v9 n3 p481-497 Sep 2018
This article describes the process of using an ethnodrama while working with older adults learning English as an additional language. By examining a 4-month-long period of Seniors Drama Club, created to offer theatre-based language learning experiences for Vancouver's immigrant senior population, the authors draw attention to the complex learning that occurs at the intersection of drama education and additional language learning. The aim of the article is twofold. First, the authors show the benefits of using adaptable and "living" texts--such as an ethnodrama--in language teaching. Second, the authors argue that framing of language learning as a collaborative theatre project empowers learners to take agency of their language learning and future use. In conclusion, the authors elaborate on some of the promising practices developed as the outcome of this community-based project.
Descriptors: English (Second Language), Second Language Learning, Second Language Instruction, Drama, Older Adults, Adult Education, Theater Arts, Learning Experience, Program Descriptions, Cooperation, Community Programs, Foreign Countries
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Publication Type: Journal Articles; Reports - Descriptive
Education Level: Adult Education
Audience: N/A
Language: English
Sponsor: N/A
Authoring Institution: N/A
Identifiers - Location: Canada
Grant or Contract Numbers: N/A