The Human Side of Language: Beyond Words
The Human Side of Language: Beyond Words
BRAZ-TESOL Rio de Janeiro Chapter | November 7 | 3:00–5:30 PM (Online)
Language is so much more than words. It is about identity, connection, emotion, culture, creativity, and the relationships that shape the way we teach and learn.
Following the inspiring conversations of The Human Side of Language, we invite you to join us for Beyond Words, a special follow-up event that continues to explore the human dimensions of language teaching and learning. Together, we will look beyond methods and techniques to reflect on the people behind the language, the experiences that shape us, and the possibilities that emerge when we put the human side of education at the centre.
We are honoured to welcome Lucia Rodrigues, BRAZ-TESOL President, as our plenary speaker. Known for her empathy, her ability to bring people together, and the way she makes people feel seen, heard, and valued, Lucia embodies the spirit of this event. Her presence reminds us that meaningful connections often begin long before words are spoken.
Throughout the event, our speakers will invite us to explore thought-provoking questions and fresh perspectives on language education, including:
* Wordplay and the unexpected: How can wordplay become a meaningful resource for language acquisition, creativity, and the exploration of unusual uses of language?
* Personalising language teaching: What emerges when we move beyond one-size-fits-all approaches and respond to learners as individuals?
* Language, identity, and belonging: How does speaking another language, particularly English, shape our identities and become an emotional and cultural experience?
* Rethinking errors: What if we looked at students’ errors not simply as things to correct, but as opportunities to understand learning and rethink our teaching practices?
* Teachers, workload, and AI: At a time when teachers are facing increasing demands, can AI genuinely support our work, or does it risk becoming yet another responsibility?
These conversations are an invitation to pause, question, share experiences, and reimagine our practice. They remind us that language teaching is never just about what we teach, but also about how we connect, how we understand one another, and how we create spaces where people can learn and thrive.
Whether you are a teacher, teacher educator, researcher, or simply passionate about language and human connection, Beyond Words is an opportunity to learn with others, exchange perspectives, and strengthen the community that makes our profession meaningful.
Because language goes beyond words. And so does teaching.
Join us for The Human Side of Language: Beyond Words.
We look forward to continuing this conversation with you!