This session explores the concept of emergent language (EL) in communicative language classrooms, defined as unplanned language arising during meaning-focused interaction and addressed contingently by the teacher. Despite its presence to real-time teaching, EL remains under-researched and often overlooked in teacher education. Drawing on sociocultural theory, postmethod pedagogy, and classroom interactional competence (CIC), this study positions EL as a critical component of responsive teaching and a feature of language teacher expertise. It will examine teacher decision making and uncover the tacit beliefs shaping these practices. By analysing classroom discourse and teacher reflections within a Critical Participatory Action Research framework, the study aims to illuminate the complexities of improvisation in language teaching and propose practical approaches for integrating EL into professional development. In this session, colleagues will be invited to comment and make suggestions regarding the research design and the planned research methods.

Want to join online?

Please email Dr Olivia Knapton (olivia.knapton@kcl.ac.uk) to receive the online meeting link.