Dr Simon Coffey

Biography

Dr Simon Coffey formerly taught English as a foreign language in France, Spain and England, then modern languages (French and Spanish) at secondary school level. Since 2003 he has worked as an applied linguist and teacher educator at King’s, where he is Programme Director of the PGCE.

His research focuses on learners’ motivation to study languages, and to do this he applies qualitative approaches to investigate learners’ relationship with different languages. Simon also researches the social history of language teaching and learning (in particular French). The overarching aim of his work is to broaden people’s conception of what learning a language can mean, as well of course as to promote enjoyment of language learning.

Research interests

His interests include:

• French teaching in England (current and historical aspects)
• Language learners' autobiographies / life narratives
• Emotional investment in language learning
• Teaching methodology

Teaching

• MA Language and Cultural Diversity
• PGCE Modern Foreign Languages 
• BA English Language and Linguistics
• Student dissertation supervision (BA, MA)
• Admissions Tutor PGCE Modern Foreign Languages
• Admissions Tutor MA Language and Cultural Diversity
• ECS Erasmus Coordinator

PhD supervision

Simon is happy to supervise students in the following areas:

• French teaching in England (current and historical aspects)
• Language learners' autobiographies / life narratives
• Emotional investment in language learning / learner motivation
• Teaching methodology (including CLIL, the inter/cultural dimension, approaches to grammar teaching, film in the classroom)

Further information

For further information about his research and publications please visit Simon's Research Staff Profile.