Teaching and (Un)learning Inclusive Language: Linguistic Perspectives and Pedagogical Considerations in Romance Languages

Activity: Academic talk or presentation typesInvited talk

Description

This session explores conceptual and practical tools to integrate discussions of inclusive language into language teaching. Drawing on perspectives from language change, grammatical variation, and linguistic attitudes, we will explore strategies for fostering awareness and critical engagement with inclusive language practices. The session focuses primarily on examples based on Romance languages—specifically Spanish, French, Italian, and Catalan—whose grammars are gendered, examining the innovative approaches speakers have developed to express inclusivity.

Participants will engage with ideas for learning activities, assessment methods, curriculum design, and community-building initiatives that highlight diverse perspectives and practices surrounding inclusive language. By comparing different linguistic contexts, understanding the social grounds behind these uses, and sharing effective strategies and examples, the session fosters reflection on themes such as relational dynamics in language use, gender-neutral expressions, language sexism and heteronormativity within and beyond the classroom.
Period30 Jan 2025
Held atUniversity of Sheffield, United Kingdom
Degree of RecognitionNational