Dr Gabriela Valenzuela Farias

Profile

With a background in linguistics, my expertise lies in teaching adults the acquisition of second languages. Over a career spanning more than 15 years, I have served as an English language educator in various universities and countries, including Chile, the United States, and the UK.

During my time in the US and the UK, I had the opportunity to work closely with international students. My responsibilities ranged from tutoring at the Writing Center to providing English language instruction in intensive programs. Prior to pursuing my PhD in Linguistics at the University of York in the UK, I held notable senior positions within universities in Chile.

Research interests

My research focuses on identifying optimal language immersion scenarios conducive to achieving advanced levels of phonological proficiency in English among second language learners. Specifically, I focus on improving phonetic features, particularly among adult learners, to enhance fluency in their second language speech.

I am interested in exploring various methods for teaching pronunciation in ESL classrooms and integrating visual technology into phonetics instruction. 

Additionally, I have a keen interest in projects aimed at developing students' writing skills in English as a second language

Qualifications

• PhD in Linguistics. University of York. UK
• MA in TESOL. Saint Cloud State university, MN. USA.
• Bachelor of Education (TESOL programme). Universidad de Concepcion. Chile
• Certificate in Education. Universidad de Concepcion, Chile.

Professional memberships

• International Phonetic Association
• International Association for Forensic Phonetics and Acoustics
• Chilean Society of Linguistics (SOCHIL)
• British Association for Applied Linguistics