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Empowering Language Learners: Critical Approaches to SDGs

  In an increasingly interconnected world, the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) offer a powerful framework for addressing global challenges. They provide a shared language for discussing crucial topics like fairness, planetary protection, and equitable access to education. However, in our urgency to integrate them, are we sometimes missing a deeper opportunity? This article proposes moving beyond a superficial "checklist" approach to the SDGs in language teaching, particularly for those in subsidiary language courses who might feel time-constrained. By embracing a more critical and relational pedagogy, we can transform SDG engagement from a managerial task into a truly transformative learning experience, empowering students to become critical thinkers, not just well-behaved global citizens. This approach aligns with calls from post-development thinkers like Arturo Escobar (2018), who urge us to question the "one-size-fits-all" Western idea of progress often em...

Hate speech and euphemism

We are reminded of the danger of euphemisms and strategic ambiguity in language. The way politicians and other language manipulators can exempt themselves of responsibility is by subtly altering agency through the way language is used. You will hear some illustrative examples. Can you add more you have recently encountered in the media? Share in the comments!


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