Classroom Culture: Fostering Inclusivity in the Digital World of ESL

Whether teaching online or in-person, the interactive experience of storytelling promotes the advancement of the targeted language through creative and collaborative learning. When ESL students culturally identify with the materials scaffolded in the class lessons, they feel more motivated and at ease to participate and engage in the intellectually and emotionally captivating discussions. Teaching online has opened the doors for many in broadening the resources we integrate into our digital learning sphere. In this brief presentation, I would like to highlight some of the most effective activities and tools I’ve gathered for free to foster a sense of camaraderie among my learners of all levels. More importantly, it is necessary to be introspective in analyzing the ways in which we can provide an open and welcoming environment for our students in their quest for linguistic acquisition.

As students become their own best storytellers , they reinforce the personalization and empowerment of language. TESOL educators will gain quick teaching tips on how to cultiate such an environment on a shoe-string budget while incorporating an abundance of humor and cultural references to promote a sense of inclusion in the community.

Learning Outcomes: By the end of the brief presentation, participants (instructors) will be able to cultivate an inclusive environment that promotes collaborative efforts in composing narratives that align with student perspectives/interests.