Teacher Reflexivity for Problematizing Gendered Discourses in ELT in China: What Can Researcher‐Practitioner Collaboration Offer?

Abstract

AbstractThe topic of gender equality has attracted significant attention in the field of English language teaching and applied linguistics. While there has been much discussion about the representation of gender in the curriculum content and teacher talk, the epistemic cognitive processes underpinning transformative teaching practices have received relatively little attention. This study utilizes the 3R‐EC (reflection, reflexivity, and resolved action for epistemic cognition) framework for teacher reflexivity to explore the epistemic process that guides teachers' pedagogical decision making, beliefs, and practices when they engage in gender education. Using critical ethnography and conversational interviews, the current study shows how epistemic reflexivity as a useful conceptual tool unravels the intricacies of teacher learning and practice in problematizing gendered discourses, and how researcher‐practitioner collaboration (RPC) serves a catalyst for promoting teacher reflexivity. It argues for a holistic approach to teacher reflection and reflective practice in gender education and stresses the importance of transforming teachers into mindful professionals who are critically aware of the gender gap and gender ideologies. Furthermore, it underscores the significance of developing innovative pedagogies for gender inclusivity and diversity in the context of English as a foreign language (EFL).