The Role of Language in the Identity Formation of Transnational EFL Teachers

Main Article Content

Perla Villegas-Torres
Irasema Mora-Pablo

Abstract

This research report presents the results of a qualitative study carried out at the Universidad de Guanajuato in central Mexico. Its purpose was to examine the process of identity formation of return migrants who lived a number of years in the United States and are currently studying for a BA in TESOL in Mexico. The participants use their knowledge of the English language to be able to reinsert themselves in society once they have returned to live in the country. Through narrative inquiry using autobiographies and semi-structured interviews, the study focuses on how language might influence the way in which individuals perceive themselves. Implications on family, ethnic associations, and school experiences were found.

Article Details

How to Cite
Villegas-Torres, P., & Mora-Pablo, I. (2018). The Role of Language in the Identity Formation of Transnational EFL Teachers. HOW, 25(2), 11–27. https://doi.org/10.19183/how.25.2.418
Section
Research Reports
Author Biographies

Perla Villegas-Torres, Universidad de Guanajuato

Perla Villegas-Torres is a student in the MA program in applied linguistics in English language teaching at the Universidad de Guanajuato. Her areas of interest are bilingualism, transnationalism, and identity formation.

Irasema Mora-Pablo, Universidad de Guanajuato

Irasema Mora-Pablo is a professor at the Universidad de Guanajuato. She holds a PhD in applied linguistics from the University of Kent, UK. She has conducted research in bilingualism, Latino studies, identity formation and native and non-native teachers and has published chapters and articles in Mexico, the U.S., and Colombia.

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