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Abstract

Unconscious bias training has received much criticism in recent years. Research shows that it is ineffective at retaining long-term engagement in the topic of bias and discrimination and has little real-world value to its participants. This study aims to investigate the opinions of current second language English teachers to assess the perceived effectiveness of unconscious bias training in the English Language Teaching (ELT) community. The study also aims to reveal areas where improvements can be made to current training practices, based upon teacher opinions, to increase the perceived effectiveness and value to ELT professionals.

From a review of the literature surrounding current unconscious bias training practices, an online questionnaire was designed and given to 20 qualified teachers in various ELT environments. Participants were asked 15 questions about their previous unconscious bias training experiences, as well as what they perceive to be most helpful to them. An analysis of the opinions presented, as well as the available quantitative data from the questionnaire, revealed several areas where participants felt improvements could be made. From the results, it can be concluded that the participants find current unconscious bias training practices to be ineffective and unsuitable for their professional needs. Further research is necessary to assess if this opinion is widespread amongst the ELT community or is confined to the sample population.

Course: English Language and Linguistics - BA - C2742S

Date Deposited: 2022-02-10

URI/permalink: https://library.port.ac.uk/dissert/dis13753.html