Crossing the pedagogical border: Language learning by language teachers

Abstract

There are a number of pretty sound reasons why good language teachers should also be good language learners. This paper briefly presents some of these reasons, and then explains how and why foreign language learning is provided in one particular course of initial training available in New Zealand, and what some of the trainees thought of the experience. It is then argued in more detail that language learning should also be included in professional development programmes for more experienced language teachers. It is concluded that this would not only increase their professional competence but would also enhance their professional status.