Susanne Heinz

Prof. Dr. Susanne Heinz is a Full Professor of Teaching English as a Foreign Language (TEFL) at the Christian-Albrechts-Universität zu Kiel since July 2016. She is currently on research sabbatical for the summer semester 2025. Her academic career includes previous positions as a senior lecturer of TEFL at the University of Augsburg (2011-2016) and the Pädagogische Hochschule Freiburg (2008-2011), as well as experience as a secondary school teacher of English and History.

Prof. Heinz earned her doctoral degree in American Studies from Ruprecht-Karls-Universität Heidelberg (1998-2002), following teacher training at Seminar Rottweil, Baden-Württemberg (1996-1998) and undergraduate studies in English and History at Ruprecht-Karls-Universität Heidelberg and University of Stirling in Scotland (1989-1996).

Her research focuses on innovative approaches to English language teaching, particularly in the areas of 21st century literacies, mobile enhanced language learning and teaching (MELLT), and the integration of diverse literary forms including graphic novels and young adult literature into EFL classrooms. She has made significant contributions to understanding how digital tools can enhance language acquisition and how cultural content, especially American studies topics, can be effectively taught to foreign language learners.

Prof. Heinz's scholarly work shows a clear trajectory toward integrating technology with language pedagogy, with increasing focus on multimodal learning approaches. Her recent publications emphasize vocabulary instruction, digital tools for language learning, and the use of authentic cultural materials. She has also explored life writing and digital storytelling as pedagogical tools, particularly in relation to African American narratives.

As an educator and mentor, Prof. Heinz has developed numerous teaching resources and teacher training programs. She received a post-doc scholarship for research on mobile learning in the EFL classroom from the Bavarian State Ministry for Gender Equality in Research and Teaching (2014-2016). Her work extends to editing academic journals and providing professional development for English teachers nationwide.

Prof. Heinz has led collaborative research projects connecting schools and universities, particularly focusing on mobile learning applications in language education. Her work bridges theoretical research with practical classroom applications, creating resources that directly impact teaching practices in EFL classrooms across Germany.