Join us for 2025’s first series of FREE professional learning webinars for language educators!
This series is planned to coincide with the publication of a new book forthcoming in 2025, The Routledge Handbook of Language Program Development and Administration, the editors of which (one of whom is CERCLL Director Beatrice Dupuy) will present the first, introductory webinar. The series will delve into some of the 52 chapters in this volume, to focus on practical issues in language program development and administration.
These webinars also tie into the Language Program Direction self-study modules on which CERCLL collaborated with the Center for Advanced Research on Language Acquisition (CARLA).
The webinars are free to attend, but participants must register in advance. Registrants who participate in these events live can request a certificate of attendance for 1.5 hours of continuing education for each webinar they attend. In addition, live attendees will be contacted after each webinar with information about how to apply for a digital badge.
Participants will be able to register for any combination of these webinars.
Current Directions in Postsecondary Language Administration: Fundamental Considerations, Implications, and Applications
Webinar presented by Alan V. Brown (University of Kentucky), Cori Crane (University of Alabama), Beatrice Dupuy (University of Arizona), and Estela Ene (Indiana University Indianapolis)
Wednesday, January 29, 2025, 10-11:30 AM Arizona/MST (UTC -7)
To see when it begins where you are, visit: https://tinyurl.com/nv9emubf.
Abstract:
Planning for and Implementing Effective World Language Program Evaluation
Presented by Meg Montee (Georgetown University) and Francesca Di Silvio (Independent Consultant).
Thursday, February 27, 2025, 10-11:30 AM Arizona/MST (UTC -7)
To see when it begins where you are, visit: https://tinyurl.com/2s3jhxs7.
Abstract:
Language program evaluation is the process of collecting and analyzing information to understand a program and make decisions about it. Whether driven by internal goals such as assessing program efficacy, or mandated externally for purposes such as accreditation, evaluation can help programs identify areas of growth and improvement. However, program evaluation can also be challenging to execute, and stakeholders may feel wary of the process or outcomes. Effective program evaluation involves careful planning and communication at each phase.
This session gives an overview of principles of language program evaluation, including steps for planning, implementation, and reporting results. We focus on including key stakeholders throughout the evaluation to ensure their perspectives are addressed. Through program evaluation scenarios and practical examples, including from the US K-12 context, we will discuss how programs can maximize the credibility and usefulness of evaluation results. Finally, we will discuss methods for qualitative and quantitative data collection, including focus groups, surveys, and interviews, and share free resources for additional learning. The session will support world language educators in conducting program evaluation as part of a cycle of evidence-based decision-making and program improvement.
➣Click here for further details and to register.
Needs Analysis and Language Learning: Unlocking Opportunities for Successful Language Programs
Presented by Ana Bocanegra-Valle (University of Cadiz, Spain)
Wednesday, March 26, 2025, 10-11:30 AM Arizona/MST (UTC -7)
To see when it begins where you are, visit: https://tinyurl.com/2sxwnc9p.
Abstract:
Needs analysis is essential to language programs and a central topic of study inquiry in the areas of second and foreign language learning, and languages for specific and academic purposes. The formulation of curricula, the layout of a syllabus, the identification of language learning objectives and results as well as the selection of language learning materials or the design of learning tasks can all be informed by an assessment of the target and current needs of the students. Likewise, the analysis of language teachers’ and language program administrators’ needs can help to uncover additional gaps and necessities that may affect instructional strategies and course design.
This webinar aims to familiarize newcomers with the concept of needs analysis while offering valuable insights to experienced teachers. It will begin by defining the key constructs of “needs” and “needs analysis”. It will then provide a concise overview of the historical evolution of needs analysis and its pivotal role in shaping language programs across diverse learning contexts. After that, the focus will be placed on the practicalities of conducting an effective needs analysis, exploring the key steps in the process, identifying the participants, and examining the methods and instruments that have proved to be useful for collecting and analyzing needs data. Examples of needs analysis studies from current literature will be put forward to delve into the principles of needs analysis in real-world contexts, and also to highlight the strengths, weaknesses, and challenges of the process. To enrich the discussion, webinar participants will be invited to share their views and contribute their own experiences in the field.