This mixed-methods study investigates the attitudes of middle and high school World Language (WL) teachers in Iowa regarding teaching students with disabilities (SWDs) as well as factors that relate to these attitudes. The study uses data from surveys of 41 Iowa WL teachers and semistructured interviews with eight. Survey data were analyzed using…

The accuracy of placement results undoubtedly affects students' subsequent learning achievements in language programs. Although there has been a growing body of studies in the field of heritage language (HL) education, research on HL placement remains scarce, and little is known about the most appropriate and effective ways to place heritage…

In spite of advances in the understanding of the effects of the immersion experience on language and cultural development in the last three decades, many questions in study abroad (SA) research remain unanswered. The present article offers a close examination of the field as it is today with an eye toward future trends and gaps in the literature.…

This study investigates the relationship between acculturation and language learning during a year-long study abroad program at the pre-collegiate level. The researcher presents the experiences of four U.S. American sojourners to Sweden as case studies. This mixed-methods study looks specifically at students with no prior knowledge of the target…

Describes a two-week Mexican immersion program for teachers including language instruction, homestays to enhance language and cultural development and a course focusing on the systematic exploration of how to integrate authentic materials into daily instruction. Results suggest that the program was successful in preparing teachers to meet the…

Content-based instruction, a communicative approach to language teaching, is defined as a curriculum (1) that is based on subject matter, (2) uses authentic materials, (3) promotes the learning of new information, and (4) considers specific student needs. The Spanish and Russian content-area programs at the Foreign Service Institute are described…

Suggests topics that require thorough consideration in the planning, implementation, and maintenance of a high-quality elementary school foreign language program, including a plan of action; program evaluation; program support; feasibility determinations; program philosophy, outcomes and goals, structure, and scheduling; curriculum and materials;…

Reviews concepts which form the basis for a communicative approach to foreign language software design. Examples of communicative program formats, the role of Local Area Networks, and teachers' roles in designing and implementing such software are also discussed. (Author/CB)

This paper reports the findings of an investigation of university students' attitudes toward the study of literature and culture in a foreign language program. Discussion centers on why language students consistently rate the study of literature below other aspects of their language courses. (19 references) (JL)

This position statement was developed by members of the National Council of State Supervisors of Foreign Languages to assist school districts as they develop middle school foreign language programs. (JL)

Presents the results of a two-year study on the integration of Internet resources as a primary instructional tool in the teaching of Italian-language classes at the University of Utah. All students studying Italian belonged to a virtual community of Italian speakers who communicated daily on various channels and mailing lists. (Author/JL)

This article offers a working checklist designed to facilitate the planning and implementation of an inservice workshop for foreign language teachers. The checklist is divided into three sections: Program, publicity, and service. It focuses on cognitive aspects of the workshop and meeting the affective and psychomotor needs of the participants.…

This brief overview of the American Council on the Teaching of Foreign Language (ACTFL) points out its essential role in organizing and improving the profession and suggests that continued work is needed in terms of professional support through money and member activities. (CB)

Answers 20 frequently asked questions regarding implementation of elementary school foreign language immersion programs, including consideration of program goals, staffing, total versus partial immersion, student participation, effects on other programs and learning, and parent involvement. (CB)

Chronicles the steps taken in developing a curricular project to design, implement, and evaluate a simulation business course for beginners learning Japanese at the university level. The steps in developing the program, from the selection of materials to the evaluation of the entire project, are presented together with insights gained from the…