Incorporating Global Citizenship Education into English Language Teaching in Secondary Education: Possibilities from the Teachers' Perspective

Abstract

This article reflects on the incorporation of Global Citizenship Education (GCE) in English language teaching (ELT) in secondary education, considering the perceptions of English teachers. Through a review of specialized literature and the teacher’s perceptions and practices, GCE, ELT and their interrelationships are conceptualized, and aspects for their effective implementation are proposed. It is found that both fields have potential synergies given the global nature of English. However, in practice, the focus remains on grammatical content, not on significant topics for young people, which is why aspects are proposed to incorporate GCE into ELT. It is concluded that greater efforts are required to rethink study programs, transform educational practices, and investigate this integration in particular contexts so that the potential of global citizenship is better harnessed for a comprehensive English education.