Evolution and Future Directions of Action Research in TESOL

Anne Burns is an Honorary Professor at the University of New South Wales and Professor Emerita at Aston University. Her research focuses on language teacher education, written and spoken discourse analysis, curriculum development and change, and language teacher cognition. She is the author of the books Collaborative Action Research for English Language Teachers published by Cambridge University Press in 1999 and Doing Action Research in English Language Teaching: A Guide for Practitioners published by Routledge in 2010. Her work has appeared in various international journals including Language Teaching, TESOL Quarterly, The Modern Language Journal, and Applied Linguistics. The current interview delves into Anne’s profound expertise in empowering teachers for action research, illuminating pivotal considerations for teacher educators. Her insights spotlight the evolving perceptions of TESOL practitioners towards action research, showcasing its transformative impact on teacher development worldwide. She underscores the significance of fostering a positive teaching environment and understanding students’ perspectives while advocating for greater institutional support. Her reflections offer invaluable guidance for TESOL professionals, inspiring meaningful change in language education through action research. This interview serves as a beacon for educators navigating their journey towards transformative teaching practices.