LEAPS: Teaching Second Languages

LEAPS (Liberal Arts and Professional Success)

The LEAPS programs are an optional component of the Compass General Education Curriculum.  Please see the LEAPS (Liberal Arts and Professional Success) section of the Compass Curriculum for more information.

Teaching Second Languages

This LEAPS will help students to develop the skills they need to teach a second language.  Students will complement their study of a foreign language with several relevant courses.  In addition, students will complete at least one practical experience with second language acquisition and teaching methods.  The programs in Spanish, French, Italian, German, and Russian stand ready to support students who wish to pursue this LEAPS.

Potential Careers

English teacher outside of the U.S.; ELL teacher inside the U.S.; world language teacher (unless the students go on to earn licensure, these positions will be at private schools); adult/informal education; international education administration; college global education administration

Completion Requirements

Students are required to take 4 courses plus an experiential component. Completion timing depends on whether students are continuing a world language that they have already studied, are heritage speakers, or starting a new language. Students who have prior experience can complete this LEAPS within a year or two. Other students will need three years or more in order to take the advanced language classes. Study abroad experience will also be a factor in the amount of time it will take to complete the advanced courses in the target language.

Required Courses

• Two advanced courses in the student’s chosen world language
• EDUC 230 Teaching English Learners  

   Choose from one of the following:

• EDUC 240 Multiple Perspectives on Literacy  
• EDUC 250 Education and Equality in the U.S.  
• EDUC 251 Special Education, Pre K-12  
• EDUC 260 Teaching and Learning  
• PSY 211 Learning and Memory  
• PSY 220 Global Psychology  

Experiential Component

Students complete one of the following:

• ​EDUC 391 Secondary School Curriculum   
• TA position in a world languages course
• Independent study in students chosen world language: (see guidelines below)
  • student has a mentor who is an experienced language instructor
  • student is able to teach at least twice
  • student receives feedback from their mentor
  • student is teaching or observing for at least 20 hours