Date, time & location: December 3, 2025 at 6 PM. Kochi University of Technology Language Lab, Kami City, Kochi Prefecture.

Speaker: Kaunapawa L. Nangula

Abstract: This presentation explores Language Teacher Identity (LTI) as a dynamic system shaped by personal biography and socio-educational contexts. Teacher beliefs—often more influential than formal training—stem from deeply held values and impact classroom practice. Making these beliefs explicit, such as viewing learners as “receptacles” or “partners,” supports reflective teaching and narrows the theory-practice gap. Professional growth is framed through “Possible Selves”: the “Ideal Self” drives aspiration, while the “Feared Self” motivates development to avoid perceived inadequacy. Effectiveness is not a fixed goal but a continuous negotiation, sustained through meaningful teacher-student rapport. This perspective positions identity construction as a lifelong process of becoming, where personal and professional selves are constantly reimagined in response to evolving beliefs, experiences, and educational landscapes.

Bio: Kaunapawa L. Nangula is an accomplished English language educator and applied linguist with extensive international experience in higher education across Japan and Namibia. A Fulbright Scholar, she holds an M.A. in TESOL from Saint Michael’s College (USA) and a B.Ed. in English and French from the University of Namibia. She has served as an Assistant Professor at the Kanazawa Institute of Technology in Japan and as a Lecturer at both the University of Namibia and the International University of Management, teaching courses such as Academic Reading and Business Communication, English for General Communication, Teaching Methodology of English, and Assessment Instruction. Her research interests include reading strategy instruction, materials development, teacher education, learner motivation, and Computer-Assisted Language Learning (CALL) in EFL and ESL contexts.

Discussion & dinner: After presentation. Please email ‘daniels at kochi-tech.ac.jp’ by November 26th if you will attend the presentation and/or the discussion & dinner.