Critical perspectives in English for academic purposes: experiences in the language without borders program

Abstract

In this paper, we aim to reflect upon critical perspectives in the teaching of English for Academic Purposes (EAP), by discussing some didactic proposals developed by teachers participating in the Language Without Borders Program (LwB). The program attempts to contribute to the process of internationalization of Brazilian universities by offering linguistic support to the academic community as well as a field for teacher education. Our view of criticality is based on the theoretical scope of the Bakhtin Circle, which conceives language as a social-historical, dialogic and situated practice, permeated with power relations. From a qualitative methodological approach, we focused on the lesson plans and materials produced for the classes as well as fieldnotes to investigate the proposals for two courses on oral production, whose objectives were to prepare students to create and deliver oral presentations in the academic context. Criticality was developed in the courses by problematising accessibility and inclusion in oral presentations and a hegemonic view of language itself. Our reflection may contribute to the development of EAP material and teaching practices.