The Role of Sarcasm in Class Management of Female vs. Male Iranian EFL Teachers

Abstract

The development of teacher training courses provides opportunities to solve the limitations of the traditional ways of teaching. This study aimed at describing the role of using sarcasm in the class management of Iranian EFL teachers, exploring the differences between male and female teachers in using sarcasm and, finding the attitudes of the participants. A group of 52 male and female Iranian EFL teachers were selected from different English language institutes, and divided into two groups in Isfahan, Iran. Teachers in Group A received the instruction, but Group B did not receive any instruction. This study employed a triangulated descriptive research approach involving questionnaires, observation, and interview. The results showed that most of the teachers had positive attitudes towards the appropriate use of sarcasm. Moreover, there was not a significant difference between male and female participants. The result of this study could be beneficial for teachers who want to find an effective strategy to control the students’ misbehavior or the disorganized class.