Communities of Practice in Language Education

In the context of UK higher education, particularly regarding the design, instruction, and assessment of Modern Languages at the degree level or as part of institution-wide language programs, communities of practice (CoP) among language education professionals have emerged at various levels—locally, regionally, and nationally—both within and outside universities. These CoPs, often associated with informal knowledge creation and social learning, have seen educators, teachers, and academic practitioners participate in diverse initiatives aimed at understanding their unique professional environments, shaping their identities, and enhancing learning through observation and reflection. This chapter examines the establishment, management, and development of CoPs, with a focus on the interplay between institutional policies, organisational priorities, and staff dynamics. It identifies key issues crucial to understanding the significance and impact of these community-based learning experiences on practice, identity formation, and meaning-making. Additionally, the chapter highlights notable CoP initiatives within the Modern Languages academic landscape in the UK and their contributions to the evolution of the field.