Report "Laugh and Learn: Thinking over the "Funny Teacher" Myth"

One of the key elements of success in a foreign language class in the possibility for that class to be not only an instance of learning, but also a moment of fun. Activities such as games, for instance, already contain a significant playful element, and that adds to the joyful tone which foreign language classes must have. It is important to laugh in the foreign language classroom.

Reasons why many teachers don’t utilize humour in their classes
Many teachers believe humour is too personal for the classroom – there is a group of individuals with different beliefs. Thus, they fear they might easily offend someone.
Use of humour could lead to discipline problems – loss of control of the class. Some argue that humour is time consuming, increases teacher talking time and may increase learner dependence.
Disbelief in the seriousness of humour – the idea of the teacher as a performer may not sound professional to many of teachers. …