The event focuses on the many forms of learning spaces that shape language education: physical, digital, hybrid, social, cultural, creative, emotional, and inner spaces. These spaces are understood not merely as settings, but as dynamic conditions for communication, participation, identity development, confidence, and meaningful language action. Particular attention is given to emotionally safe learning environments that encourage risk-taking, reduce anxiety, support error-friendly communication, and foster learners’ willingness to speak and interact in another language.
A central highlight of the symposium is the keynote by Karla and Travis Jensen from Nebraska Wesleyan University, entitled “Mindful by Nature: Unlocking Safe Spaces for Language Acquisition.” Their contribution examines how mindfulness and nature-based learning can help language learners move from cognitive overload and anxiety toward openness, attention, and confident communication. Drawing on concepts such as Attention Restoration Theory, sensory grounding, and soft fascination, they will show how natural environments can become powerful safe spaces for language acquisition when supported by mindful pedagogical practice.
The symposium brings together international perspectives, research-based insights, and practice-oriented approaches to safe spaces in language education. It invites students, teachers, teacher educators, researchers, and all those interested in inclusive and inspiring learning environments to reflect on how language classrooms — and learning spaces beyond the classroom — can become places where learners feel secure enough to grow.
Students are especially welcome.
Programm (vorläufig)
14.30 bis 15.00 Coffee Space
15.00 bis 15.20 Petra Hiebl & Heiner Böttger: Welcome & Introduction to Safe Spaces
15.20 bis 16.00 Karla & Travis Jensen: Mindful by Nature: Unlocking Safe Spaces for Language Acquisition Break
16.30 bis 17.00 Petra Hiebl, Maximiliane Schumm & Laura Kovac: Nature as a Safe Haven: How Basic Psychological Needs and Biophilia Shape Outdoor Learning Environments
17.00 bis 17.30 Jasmin Peskoller: Cultural Safe Spaces in Foreign Language Teaching
17.30 bis 18.00 Heiner Böttger: Inspiration Space
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Die Teilnehmendenzahl vor Ort ist auf 50 Personen und online auf 300 Personen begrenzt! First come first served…
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