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While most teachers are likely unable to indulge in traditional research due to factors such as training, logistics, and other issues, this does not mean we are incapable of adding anything worthwhile to the larger conversation! More programs at both the K-12 and university level are starting to recognize the unique wisdom that can only come from the voice of practicing teacher educators, and arguably one of the most valuable skill sets developed in the MAFLT program is how to bridge this gap between teacher and academic researcher.
Brenner_FLT815_InterculturalInvestigation_FINAL.docxAs evidence of my original research skills, I conducted interviews, gathered data, and completed a thorough analysis of the results for my intercultural investigation essay. This allowed me to deepen my general understanding of how intercultural skills and attitudes are built, which in turn provides greater support for my students who are working through the intercultural process for themselves.
Building from others' work is also a critical research skill. For example, in this second essay I focused on compiling a wide range of research on second language acquisition, specifically regarding pre-intermediate level incidental vocabulary acquisition. My primary goal was to synthesize a variety of studies and viewpoints in a way that could be easily understood and applied to the foreign language classroom, making these academic research articles more accessible to the average teacher.
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