Future-proofing language teaching: How the COVID-19 pandemic has changed our profession

Stickler, Ursula and Emke, Martina (2023). Future-proofing language teaching: How the COVID-19 pandemic has changed our profession. CALICO Journal, 40(2) pp. 137–152.

DOI: https://doi.org/10.1558/cj.26204

Abstract

This article explores the future of language teaching in the light of recent developments. It is set against the background of the COVID-19 pandemic which accelerated technology-related changes within the field. The article outlines factors which have contributed to a shift in the role of language teachers, followed by a depiction of the transformation observed at three distinct points in time during the pandemic. Trends in the changes are drawn from the data with the help of direct quotes, categories of responses and vignettes representing aggregated language teacher voices. Finally, based on the uncovered trends, we outline reasons for being optimistic about the future of our profession and provide recommendations for language teachers and language educators to take charge of developments to co-create possible futures for our roles in the profession.