Amanda Dalola
Adolfo Carrillo Cabello
Monday, February 20, 2023
4:30 pm Eastern; 3:30 pm Central
Session Title: Understanding success in undergraduate language certificates: Success rates and their implications
Description:
In the US, many language departments have developed certificate programs, primarily as a recruiting strategy to increase enrollments. These programs are designed for students to demonstrate oral and written communication skills and broaden (inter)cultural knowledge necessary for cross-cultural interactions. While most programs provide students with the evidence of achieved language proficiency levels, these certifications are not always recognized by employers. In this session, we explore the concept of language proficiency certification by outlining the shared components of certificate programs. Next, we will review success rates for program completion at the University of Minnesota. Moreover, we will discuss implications of the success rates in post-graduate career opportunities, and will share ideas for increasing success rates.
About the Discussants:
Amanda Dalola is an Associate Professor at the Institute of Linguistics and Director of the Language Center. Adolfo Carrillo Cabello is a Technology Enhanced Language Learning Specialist at the CLA Language Center at the University of Minnesota