A Reflection on the Transformation of My SELF as an English Teacher: A Critical Journey towards a New Becoming

Routledge. Available from: Taylor & Francis, Ltd. 530 Walnut Street Suite 850, Philadelphia, PA 19106. Tel: 800-354-1420; Tel: 215-625-8900; Fax: 215-207-0050; Web site: http://www.tandf.co.uk/journals

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14

English (Second Language); Language Teachers; Teacher Role; Activism; Theory Practice Relationship; Professional Identity; Foreign Countries; Curriculum Development; Literature; Teaching Methods

10.1080/1358684X.2022.2159330

1358-684X
1469-3585

This essay shows how I came to assume the role of an activist-scholar and educator through engaging in self-observation and self-reflection in the course of my day-to-day professional practice. The story of my professional growth comprises epiphanies that were transformational, enabling me and my students to transcend our traditional roles. This critical adventure occurred in an Iranian language institute where I was able to implement a curriculum inspired by principles of critical pedagogy and Rumi's literary texts. I drew on material from divergent sources to develop and understand my transformed self. My story illustrates my departure from domineering syllabi, how I embraced alternative roles, and became what I call a 'nomad' educator. My aim is to show how teachers can bridge the theory-practice gap to implement a curriculum that is congruent with their internal selves and their students' souls, thoughts, and lived culture.

As Provided

2023

EJ1387726