This made me consider the "third" space, and what it truly meant to be an intercultural. It has developed into quite a complicated picture, which I am still finding difficult to articulate, but strongly feel is incredibly important for the overall development of our young people. The future citizens of our world need to develop this unique skill of flexibility and compassion.
It's the ability to suspend judgement temporarily, and engage with others of different cultures, experience it as authentically as possible. Once finished with the transactions, to critically consider what aspects are valuable, and what aspects of that culture can I be critical of. At the same time, consider the context for .
What do we, as educators, need to do to ensure students are able to cope in the 21st century, in a global society? What is my role as a language teacher to ensure students are learning a valuable skill for the future (apart from the obviously trying to communicate)?
Languages are not valued in Australian educational system, partly due to lack of established government policy (which is going to change apparently!), and other reasons. It can be an uphill battle to engage students (and parents!) as they cannot directly see the value of a second language. At times, as secondary teachers, we can become very insular and consider our own subjects to be necessary for students to learn, and become quite frustrated when others do not see it that way.
In reflection, I still consider learning a foreign language important, but ultimately my philosophy as an educator is to ensure students become successful, reasonably well rounded contributing citizens of the world. Language learning acts as a ENHANCER for students' lives and welfare. This may not come in the same shape and form for all students, but it doesn't make it any less important. What can I do to help contribute to their story?
In part, I feel it is my duty to ensure that students are developing ways to empathise and understand others, while also developing skills which allow them to become more independent in their learning. Trying to teach them problem-solving skills, and allow them to each find a way to teach themselves.