Using the knowledge and expertise of English language specialists to enhance L1 English speaking lecturers’ lectures: A professional development project

Abstract

This paper reports on a professional development project between a lecturer in a UK university and two EAP practitioners. The aim was to assess the extent to which EAP practitioners’ knowledge of academic English and teaching strategies common to the EAP and ELT sectors could be harnessed to enhance the lectures of an L1 English lecturer for international students. The methodology included recording and reviewing sample lectures, conducting focus groups with students and a reflection discussion with the lecturer. It provided the lecturer with an opportunity to engage with practices drawn from the ELT and EAP sectors in order to develop her lecturing style for these students. The project explored ideas relating to lecturing skills, features of lecture language and discourse, and adopting EAP and ELT teaching techniques in higher education.