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The SLA Research Professional Learning Community (PLC) Initiative
The SLA Research Professional Learning Community (PLC) Initiative
"How have I never heard of this before!?"
This was my reaction when I first learned of task-based language teaching (TBLT) as a graduate student. Even though TBLT has strong ties to current second language acquisition research, it is not an instructional approach common in K-12 world language education in the United States. This also reflects a larger disconnect between second language acquisition research and the realities of language learning and teaching. For instance, there is promising data about TBLT in in experimental research studies and in instructed context around the worlds, but how well it might "work" or "fit" in the U.S. K-12 world language classrooms remains an open question.
It is this question I will tackle in a year-long collaborative project with a cohort of K-12 world language teachers.
Participating teachers will join me in a virtual professional learning community (PLC) initiative throughout the 2025-2026 academic year. This is a free PLC dedicated to exploring how existing research-based instructional strategies and materials align with the demands of U.S. K-12 world language classrooms through iterative cycles of inquiry... and identifying where further research needs to be done to meet the unique classroom language learning contexts!
PLC groups will be capped at 12 members each and divided based on grade and proficiency level, as participation and scheduling permits. Focal topics and themes from second language acquisition research will be collectively decided based on the groups' interests and needs. PLC members have opportunities to earn PD hours, as well as support for sharing their work in state, regional, or national conferences and publications
Is this professional learning community a good fit for you?
Is this professional learning community a good fit for you?
This PLC is set up for world language teachers of any age or language who work in FLES, FLEX or traditional programs.* If you have ever...
Used second language acquisition research as a tool to reflect on your teaching practices,
Felt curious about how research might explain, support, or inform your pedagogy, and/or
Wanted to connect more with research through reading, conducting, and/or participating in it
...this PLC is for you! Fill out the brief interest form form below and email me directly at cap187@georgetown.edu with any questions.
*If you work in an immersion or English language program, and have interest in participating in a similar inquiry-based community for your program type, please reach out!
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