Thematic workshop: Embodiment and the arts in language learning

Description

This thematic workshop addresses embodiment and the arts in language learning. The workshop builds on ongoing research in the research project Embodied Language Learning through the Arts (2021–2024) and includes four papers that explore the intertwinements of embodiment, artistic activity, and language learning.

The workshop aims to continue the discussion started by Pöyhönen and Paulasto (2020) in the special issue Language and the arts – creative inquiry in applied linguistics published in AFinLA-e series, with a specific focus on the role of embodiment in arts-based approaches to language learning and teaching. The mind-body connection, as well as the connection between the arts, embodiment, language, and learning, have been strongly established theoretically, philosophically, and empirically. However, embodied learning is still superficially understood and discussed in academic contexts, and pedagogical practices have responded slowly to developments in this research area. Therefore, there is a need for more research that explores the intertwinement of embodiment and the arts in nurturing, expanding, and enriching language learning. Recently, the interest in embodiment and the arts in applied linguistics research has increased. Previous research indicates that embodied learning and arts-based approaches can support different areas of language use and learning, strengthen motivation, and create enjoyment (e.g., Jusslin et al., 2022). This points to valuable aspects for language learning, where common challenges encompass questions about how language learners can become motivated, inspired, and actively engaged.

The presentations in the workshop are concerned with research into and through arts (see Bradley & Harvey, 2019) and cover different educational contexts with additional language learning focusing on embodiment and the arts. The workshop is multilingual with presentations in which Finnish, English, and Swedish are used.

Paper presentations:
Eeva Anttila & Mariana Siljaämki: ​Kehollisuus ja taide kielenoppimisessa: Johdanto ja joitakin pedagogisia ehdotuksia​
Kaisa Korpinen: ‘Wild’ languaging when integrating dance in early Swedish language education ​
Sofia Jusslin, Lotta Kaarla, Kaisa Korpinen & Niina Lilja: Entanglements of languaging and dancing: Exploring spoken word choreographies in upper secondary school ​

Period	10 Nov 2023
Event title	AFinLA Syyssymposium 2023
Event type	Conference
Location	Tampere, FinlandShow on map
Degree of Recognition	National