Getting Started with Language and Intercultural Learning

The Global Competence Certificate Program was created to track students’ development of competencies that are critical to their success as global citizens who can contribute meaningfully to resolving global issues and ensuring a prosperous and equitable global economy. 

In order to fulfill certificate requirements, students will reflect on their experiences in three key competencies:

• Global Learning
• International Engagement
• Language and Intercultural Learning

What is Language and Intercultural Learning?

Students will respond to reflection questions about language learning experiences and language literacy. If a student has taken language coursework during their high school careers, they may reflect on the learning process. Students might also reflect on intercultural communication experiences in their home, local community, or abroad.

Students may work with World Affairs Council staff and, possibly, an advisor to identify meaningful experiences around language learning and intercultural communication.

Ideas to get you started:

• Have you taken a language class in school?
• Does your family speak another language besides English at home or in community settings?
• Do you have friends at school who speak a language besides English?
• Have you ever traveled to another country or an area in a city where other languages besides English are used?

If you’ve done any of these things, you may be able to start by reflecting on these experiences and adding it to your Global Competence website portfolio.

Virtual Language Learning

At this time of COVID-19, almost all schools are closed and students are learning virtually (or remotely) via technology. So, we may have to get creative to engage in learning outside the classroom.

Here are some ideas to check out:

CASLS YouTube Channel
The Center for Applied Second Language Studies (CASLS) at the University of Oregon fosters innovation in world language teaching and learning by providing research-based solutions to materials creation, program implementation, and evaluation and assessment. Check out the CASLS YouTube Channel for engaging Activities of the Day. And try out their 30-Day Language Learning Challenge.

FIUTS Virtual Language Exchange
FIUTS Virtual Language Exchange is a FREE program open to everyone in our global community that provides participants with opportunities to practice languages, make new friends, and engage in cultural exchange.