Mona Eikel-Pohen

Mona Eikel-Pohen is an Associate Teaching Professor of German and Modern Foreign Language Coordinator at Syracuse University's Department of Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics (College of Arts and Sciences). Her research focuses on participatory pedagogies, creative language teaching methods (e.g., improvisation), and the intersection of self-translation and identity. She holds a doctoral degree in Modern German Literature from Ruhr-Universität Bochum (2009) and additional teaching certifications in Germany.

Education:

• Doctoral degree, Modern German Literature, Ruhr-Universität Bochum (2009)
• Applied Teaching Degrees (Zweites Staatsexamen) in Performing Arts and German/English (2004–2002)
• Erstes Staatsexamen in German/English Language and Culture, Ruhr University Bochum (1999)

Research Interests: Eikel-Pohen explores innovative teaching strategies rooted in neuroscience, such as improvisation and creative writing, to enhance language acquisition and cultural understanding. Her work emphasizes democracy and agency in education, with projects like Fluchtpunkt Magdeburg (integrating theater and language learning) and transatlantic online tandem initiatives. She also examines German literature of the 20th/21st century, including translation studies and post-Wall cultural policy.

Awards:

• Anthony J. Papalia Award (2021)
• Gerlinde Ulm Sanford Award (2021)
• Innovative Teaching Initiative Award (2020)

Grants & Projects: Recent grants include DAAD funding for ACTFL travel (2024) and Syracuse's SOURCE grants for research on ecofascism and commemorative culture (2024–2022).

Labs/Teams: Collaborates on projects like Fluchtpunkt Magdeburg and transatlantic online language tandems, emphasizing interdisciplinary and community-focused learning.