Open practices as a catalyst for language teachers’ professional development

Abstract

This small-scale pilot study enquired into the Open Educational Practices (OEPs) that freelance English language teachers in Switzerland are engaging in and the role these played in their Continuing Professional Development (CPD). Participants are members of a teaching association and work in adult education. Freelancers are often faced with precarious working conditions which can impact on CPD opportunities. Research has shown that engaging in OEP can open up meaningful learning opportunities in situ. However, these projects have mainly been in higher education settings where support and training has been offered. Hence, this study explored what freelancers are doing in their natural settings. This project focussed on activities associated with open teaching practices and digital networking practices. Findings are very limited but suggest that open practices can act as an enabler for learning opportunities that lead to knowledge development and improved digital literacy and literacy skills and language skills.