The Language Imperative Podcast

Vista Higher Learning
  • 3.5 (4)
  • LANGUAGE LEARNING
  • UPDATED SEMIMONTHLY

Tune into Vista’s new podcast series, The Language Imperative, for insightful conversations with award-winning language educators—from the intimacy of hands-on workshops to the development of powerful systems at the state and local levels—all with an eye towards national transformation and empowerment. Listen now! To learn more or subscribe to our newsletter visit: https://vhlblog.vistahigherlearning.com/subscribe

Episodes

  1. [Episode 12] Championing World Languages: Why Educators Must Advocate

    05/22/2025

    [Episode 12] Championing World Languages: Why Educators Must Advocate

    In this episode, Ricky is joined by Dr. Leslie Baldwin, World Languages Director for the Winston-Salem/Forsyth County Schools, to discuss the critical role of advocacy in language education. She emphasizes the importance of language educators promoting their programs, engaging stakeholders, and demonstrating the value of language study beyond mere communication. Dr. Baldwin provides practical strategies for proactive advocacy, highlights the connection between language study and essential skills, and encourages teachers to utilize available resources to effectively communicate their program's impact. Dr. Baldwin calls for all educators to embrace advocacy as a vital part of their professional responsibilities. Chapters 00:01 Welcome & Introduction to the Podcast 00:46 Meet Dr. Leslie Baldwin 01:59 Why Advocacy Matters in Language Education 04:15 What Advocacy Looks Like for Teachers 06:40 Simple Advocacy in Action 10:47 Demonstrating Impact with Data and Stories 15:15 Tailoring the Message to Your Audience 23:23 Final Thoughts on Encouraging Teacher Advocacy Episode Resources Vista’s The Language Imperative Podcast Teaching for Effective Language Learning (TELL) Guides https://pearll.nflc.umd.edu/teacher-effectiveness/ ACTFL https://www.actfl.org/advocacy Language Connects Foundation https://www.languageconnectsfoundation.org/programs-initiatives/public-education/advocacy The Global Seal Organization https://theglobalseal.com/promotional-resources

    33 min
  2. [Episode 11] Trend or Tool: Examining the Push and Pull of AI and Its Impact on Multilingual Learners

    10/23/2024

    [Episode 11] Trend or Tool: Examining the Push and Pull of AI and Its Impact on Multilingual Learners

    Dr. Jenni Trujillo, Dean of Education at Fort Lewis College, teacher, writer, and author, discusses her passion for bilingual education and the potential of AI to support multilingual learners by enhancing educational materials and providing personalized learning experiences. She emphasizes the importance of using AI cautiously, balancing its benefits with its limitations. Dr. Trujillo highlights the need for AI to be tailored to meet diverse student needs, advocating for its use to complement rather than replace traditional teaching methods. She discusses various AI tools which can aid in language practice and the generation of visuals to support language instruction. Dr. Trujillo stresses the importance of addressing equity concerns and teaching students to critically evaluate AI-generated content, ensuring that AI is used thoughtfully and equitably in education. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Background 02:43 Exploring AI in Language Education 04:18 Differentiation and Scaffolding with AI 07:04 The Generational Divide in AI Adoption and Implementation 09:14 AI Tools for Language Acquisition 13:06 The Role of Visuals in Language Education 19:57 Promoting Equity with AI in Education 27:03 The Future of AI for Multilingual Learners and Language Educators 33:25 Human Connection Through AI Episode Resources Vista’s The Language Imperative Podcast

    39 min
  3. [Episode 10] Connecting the Dots: The Role of Language Assessment in Validating Students' Progress and Proficiency

    10/07/2024

    [Episode 10] Connecting the Dots: The Role of Language Assessment in Validating Students' Progress and Proficiency

    Summary Jennifer Dobberfuhl Quinlan, Associate Director of Assessment Product Management at Language Testing International (LTI) discusses the growing importance of multilingualism in the workforce and how world language educators can advocate for their programs amidst budget cuts by highlighting the economic and cultural benefits of language skills. She emphasizes the role of language assessment in validating students' progress and proficiency, noting that fluctuations in test scores can be part of normal developmental processes. Quinlan also addresses the need for equitable access to language testing and the importance of considering diverse language needs in educational assessments. The conversation also focuses on how official language certifications, like those from ACTFL, are becoming increasingly valuable in connecting classroom learning with real-world opportunities. Chapters 00:00 Introduction 01:27 Importance of Multilingual Workers 03:56 Advocating for World Language Programs 07:48 The Benefits of Language Learning for Students 11:10 The Role of Language Testing 15:25 Understanding U-Shaped Learning Patterns 22:30 Impact of the Revised ACTFL Proficiency Guidelines 27:17 Equitable Access in Language Testing 34:42 The Future of Language Education and Assessments 36:50 Conclusion and Final Thoughts Episode Resources Vista’s The Language Imperative Podcast

    38 min
  4. [Episode 9] AI in the World Language Classroom: Ethical Considerations and Practical Strategies

    08/23/2024

    [Episode 9] AI in the World Language Classroom: Ethical Considerations and Practical Strategies

    Summary Noemi Rodriguez discusses the use of generative AI in language classrooms and addresses concerns about its impact on teaching and learning. She emphasizes the importance of the teacher-student relationship and the unique role of teachers in connecting with students. Rodriguez also discusses the potential impact of generative AI on students' critical thinking skills and suggests that teachers should reconsider their assessments to ensure they align with their goals for student growth. She highlights the need for ethical considerations when using generative AI and emphasizes the importance of training the AI models responsibly to avoid perpetuating biases. Rodriguez provides practical advice for teachers on integrating generative AI into their classrooms and encourages them to experiment and collaborate with colleagues. She also discusses her consulting business, Lo Logramos, and her AI innovator community, which aims to support teachers in their AI literacy journey. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Background 03:49 Reconsidering Assessments in the Age of Generative AI 07:36 Ethical Considerations in Using Generative AI 10:40 Integrating Generative AI: Experimentation and Collaboration 14:23 Generative AI's Limitations and Unique Contributions 16:11 The Role of Teachers in Training and Using Generative AI Responsibly 18:24 Practical Applications of Generative AI in Language Classrooms 25:06 Preparing for the Integration of Generative AI 29:37 Takeaways and Conclusion Episode Resources Vista’s The Language Imperative Podcast https://go.vistahigherlearning.com/The-Language-Imperative-Podcast.html Lo Logramos https://lologramosconsulting.com/contact/ AI Innovator Community for Language Educators Site https://lologramos.thinkific.com/bundles/ai-innovator-community-for-language-educators

    37 min
  5. [Episode 8] Planting the Seeds of Dual Language Development

    08/06/2024

    [Episode 8] Planting the Seeds of Dual Language Development

    Summary Ryan Smith, a principal at Glenn Duncan Elementary School with 26 years of experience in education, discusses the importance of language development for elementary school students. He highlights the benefits of dual immersion programs and the rapid language acquisition he has witnessed in his own school with young students. Smith emphasizes the need for language education to be inclusive and accessible to all students, regardless of their background or abilities. He also discusses the significance of the Seal of Biliteracy in recognizing and celebrating students' language proficiency, and encourages the language community to continue advocating for language education and to prioritize student engagement and relationships in the classroom. Chapters 00:00 Introductions 03:11 Language Development in Elementary School 05:11 Dual Immersion Programs 07:54 Inclusivity and Accessibility in Language Education 13:09 Recognizing Language Proficiency with the Seal of Biliteracy 23:36 Language Education in Underserved Communities 28:44 Reimagining Electives in Education 37:39 The Impact of the Seal of Biliteracy 43:45 Final Thoughts and Appreciation Episode Resources Vista’s The Language Imperative Podcast https://go.vistahigherlearning.com/The-Language-Imperative-Podcast.html Vista’s Language and Literacy Solutions https://vistahigherlearning.com/programs/k-12

    44 min
  6. [Episode 7] Growing Programs and Student Opportunities through the Seals of Biliteracy

    04/19/2024

    [Episode 7] Growing Programs and Student Opportunities through the Seals of Biliteracy

    Join Ricky Adamson in a dynamic conversation with Linda Egnatz, Executive Director of the Global Seal of Biliteracy, as they explore the significance of language acquisition and the role of State Seals of Biliteracy in recognizing bilingual skills. Linda sheds light on the creation of the Global Seal, filling crucial gaps in documenting language proficiency. They discuss how State Seals and the Global Seal complement each other, emphasizing the celebration of diversity and identity. Discover how students and educators can leverage these seals to their fullest potential, while also exploring the impact of these programs on classroom dynamics and student motivation, alongside advocacy efforts and funding opportunities for language education. Tune in to unlock the transformative power of these seal programs in advancing language learning and proficiency. Episode Resources The Global Seal of Biliteracy Website The Seal of Biliteracy Vista’s Language and Literacy Solutions Vista’s Global Seal of Biliteracy Webinar with Linda Egnatz Vista’s The Language Imperative Podcast

    47 min
  7. [Episode 6] Making a World-Changing Commitment to Language Education

    04/24/2023

    [Episode 6] Making a World-Changing Commitment to Language Education

    Howie Berman, former Executive Director of ACTFL, shares the fifty-year perspectives, experiences, and vision leading to the decision to partner with the new national philanthropic Language Connects Foundation. The Foundation’s vision: preparation of a diverse, well-prepared, and highly skilled language educator workforce, with powerful outcomes for educators, students, and the nation. Hear how we all can benefit from and engage with this essential vision and mission. Read the accompanying blog article for this episode.

    44 min
  8. [Episode 5] Let’s Amplify the Voice of Language Professionals

    03/27/2023

    [Episode 5] Let’s Amplify the Voice of Language Professionals

    Advocacy for language educational opportunities is a continuous flow of energy to and from the classroom through schools and communities, culminating in program creation and funding at state and national levels. In this conversation with Amanda Seewald, Executive Director of the national advocacy organization JNCL-NCLIS, we discuss world language education directions, opportunities, needs, and challenges. Read the accompanying blog article for this episode.

    50 min
  9. [Episode 4] The Pulsera Project Addresses the Language Imperative

    02/28/2023

    [Episode 4] The Pulsera Project Addresses the Language Imperative

    Using humility, solidarity, and self-awareness as guiding principles, the Pulsera Project has opened the eyes and ears of students to target language art and perspectives while simultaneously partnering with target-culture artisans and their communities. We talk with Pulsera co-founder Chris Howell about the vision, mission, and impact of the Project in the lives of students and teachers, both in school and in the world. Read the accompanying blog article for this episode. Learn more about Vista’s partnership with The Pulsera Project—including a chance for K-12 teachers to win $1,000 in instructional materials and a trip to Central America!

    50 min
  10. [Episode 3] The Promise and Power of Dual Language Immersion

    12/12/2022

    [Episode 3] The Promise and Power of Dual Language Immersion

    Gain insights into how to ensure access to language and cultural proficiency for students of diverse abilities across all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic communities. Consider the specific opportunities and challenges found in dual language immersion programs K-12. Find your own pathways to program breakthroughs and successes in your educational setting and community.

    50 min
  11. [Episode 2] Proficiency for All: Principles, Pathways, and Practices

    11/10/2022

    [Episode 2] Proficiency for All: Principles, Pathways, and Practices

    Proficiency for All: Principles, Pathways, and Practices If you’re dedicated to providing accessible and effective language-learning experiences that serve diverse student populations and needs, you don’t want to miss Mara Cobe’s insights on how to guide your planning by adopting key language instruction principles; how to gain confidence in processes to establish and adjust programs to ensure student success; and how to affirm the importance of your commitment to intentionality, relevance, and proficiency in challenging circumstances. Read the accompanying blog articles for this episode—Principles.

    45 min
  12. [Episode 1] Empower via Empathy: Language and the Lens of Life

    10/19/2022

    [Episode 1] Empower via Empathy: Language and the Lens of Life

    Hear how to build solid relationships that result in successful learning experiences for students and teachers. Gain insights into how “Lens of Life” teaching connects content to community. Understand the nature and power of Transformative Emotional Intelligence to transform lives. Come away affirmed and equipped for your work as a language educator. Read the accompanying blog articles for this episode—Part I and Part II

    52 min
  • 12 Episodes

Ratings & Reviews

3.5
out of 5
4 Ratings

About

Tune into Vista’s new podcast series, The Language Imperative, for insightful conversations with award-winning language educators—from the intimacy of hands-on workshops to the development of powerful systems at the state and local levels—all with an eye towards national transformation and empowerment. Listen now! To learn more or subscribe to our newsletter visit: https://vhlblog.vistahigherlearning.com/subscribe

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