French As a Second Language Teachers’ Conceptualizations and Pedagogical Views of Intercultural Awareness, Intercultural Competence, and Global Citizenship

Abstract

This mixed-methods research investigated Grades 7, 8, and 9 Ontario Core and Immersion French as a second language (FSL) teachers’ conceptualizations of intercultural awareness (IA), intercultural competence (IC) and global citizenship (GC). Questions that guided the research were: ‘How does a purposeful sample of FSL teachers conceptualize GC?’, ‘How do they conceptualize and connect IA and IC to GC?’, and ‘How do these conceptualizations influence teachers’ curriculum interpretation and implementation?’. Both questionnaire and interview findings showed this group of FSL teachers focuses mainly on developing students’ communicative skills, while culture plays a secondary role in their teaching. FSL teachers born abroad unveiled a disposition to promote a deeper cultural knowledge among their students, compared to their Canadian born peers. Additionally, the study indicated that the classroom context influences how teachers perceive and teach culture. In more homogeneous settings, the focus tends to be on communication and sociolinguistic skills, with culture often taught through ‘fun’ activities. Core French and French immersion participants highlighted a lack of teaching materials that incorporate IA, IC, and GC competencies. They expressed a need for professional development opportunities to better understand the role of GC in FSL education. This study distinguished itself from other FSL research by offering two key suggestions. FSL teachers would benefit from learning about the deep connection between language and culture to enhance the breadth and depth of cultural instruction in language learning. Additionally, they would gain from understanding their role as cultural mediators (CM) who are aware of their own cultural biases, are open-minded and curious about other cultures, and aim to foster peaceful interactions among members of diverse cultures. Cultural mediation promotes deep cultural understanding, the development of IA and IC skills, and potentially fosters GC in FSL education.