Teaching Abroad: Teacher as a Mediator
teaching english abroad
Mediation for this case means the term used for being able to mediate between two languages and cultures. The role of a mediator is different from translator. A mediator does not translate word by word as a translator does but he/she has to be able to deliver the meaning of a text (written or spoken) to help people who do not have any knowledge of the target language. Moreover, the role of a mediator between two language communities is really significant, because mediation includes establishing cultural diversities besides language awareness.
In EFL/ESL (English as a foreign/second language) teaching, teacher has to be able to take the role of a competent mediator. Part of the lesson is always a mediation part or mediation session. It is so as young students may face difficulties in coping with the monolingual approach. Furthermore, EFL/ESL students tend to translate into L1 in order to accomplish the task. Somehow the meaning of single words in a sentence does not sound as its real meaning. The mediation sessions will be really helpful for EFL/ESL students and make them feel at home. Besides, in general, it makes them more confident to speak in the target language. It will be better if the mediation parts consist of role play in certain ‘real life situations.
In an EFL/ESL class, the combination of cultural as well as social diversities in classrooms where several L1 languages fly through the classroom in order to communicate can make an English lesson even more complex. In this case, teacher needs to take his/her role as a mediator. It is good for the teacher to be able to use songs and hits using purposefully rock, rap, hip hop or heavy metal groups from the cultural origin of the students who have decided to use English to deliver their lyrics. Music always works. However, in my opinion, some extent we all do on our mediation sessions depending on our learners needs.
Find other information on teaching abroad: teach English overseas, teaching English overseas, TESL
