Embedding a Culture of Empathy in ELT
Speaker: Kieran Donaghy
In recent years, empathy has gained popularity and is considered essential for social and emotional well-being, as well as for the enrichment of civic society and education. Despite its relevance, the definition and in-depth analysis of this complex concept are often overlooked. In this paper, we will delve into the exploration of empathy, addressing its neurological foundations and its three main components: cognitive empathy, affective empathy, and empathic concern.
Findings on empathy in education and the teaching of English
The purpose of my work is to synthesize educational literature regarding empathy, with a specific focus on language teaching to highlight its crucial role. I will investigate the potential lack of empathy in this field and analyze the challenges in fostering an empathetic culture within the profession. Regarding practical application, I will examine how to develop empathy among students, teachers, and trainers, exploring various techniques and approaches from diverse sources.
In summary, the presentation aims to demonstrate the fundamental importance of empathy in language learning, advocating for a more compassionate and fair language teaching approach.