School of Teaching and Learning

About BGSU's World Language Education Program:
BGSU's World Language Education Program prepares you for a career teaching one of five languages - French, German, Latin, Russian or Spanish. As a language teacher, you can have a direct impact on the ability of future generations to be more globally connected in the 21st century. In the program, students will experience classroom theory with field and clinical experiences from freshman through senior year to provide valuable insight into the teaching profession. During methods courses (EDTL 2290 and 4290) and student teaching, students will participate in authentic teaching in PK-12 classrooms. World Language Education students have the opportunity to study abroad and participate in multicultural student teaching experiences. 

Where Are the World Language Education Alumni Now?

In the last two years 22 students have graduated from the program, specializing in French, German, or Spanish education. Of those students who graduated in 2011, 7 are teaching language in the U.S or abroad and two are pursing graduate studies. 

Curriculum:
Students who want to teach French, German, Latin, Russian, or Spanish in elementary (PreK-8) or secondary (7-12) schools may pursue the World Language Education program. In addition to University and College requirements, successful completion of this program includes a specialization in one of the listed languages, a minimum of one 15-week fall/spring study abroad experience, a series of professional education courses, professional exams (including content exams, and speaking/writing proficiency exams), and field and clinical teaching experiences in world language classrooms. These components prepare students to apply for a multi-age (3-21) teaching license in the language. World Language Checksheet

BGSU Study Abroad:
BGSU's renowned Academic Year Abroad programs offer students the linguistic and cultural benefits of extended living and studying in another language and culture. Teacher candidates work with the Academic Year Abroad Office and their advisors regarding the timing of their abroad and on-campus courses.

BGSU faculty members direct the study abroad programs in collaboration with local, on-site professors. Because of BGSU's extensive commitments and contacts, programs are also among the least expensive. Students pay regular BGSU tuition and receive full academic credit for their coursework abroad. In addition, students may apply for University or departmental scholarships. Students live with host families. 

• French: Teacher candidates study at the Institut de Touraine and the Universite Francois Rabelais in Tours.
• German: Teacher candidates with at least four semesters of college German study in Salzburg, Austria. Qualified music students may attend the Mozarteum.
• Latin: Teacher candidates study classical civilization in Rome, Italy.
• Russian: Teacher candidates with at least one year of Russian study for a summer and semester abroad in St. Petersburg.
• Spanish: Candidates study in Alcala de Henares, Spain, one of the oldest American programs in Spain. 

Special opportunities exist for students entering teacher education degree programs at Bowling Green State University. These include: (a) Partners in Context and Community Learning Center (focus on urban education), (b) studying abroad in Keele, England, (c) student teaching abroad in English-speaking schools in Rio de Janerio, or (d) student teaching with our school partners in Aldine, Texas.

Students may also decide to study abroad through other university programs or apply directly to the international university.

BGSU is home to one of the largest Teacher Job Fairs in the country, sponsored by BGSU’s Career Services. Candidates in BGSU teacher education programs also enjoy a variety of resources for their use including the Curriculum Resource Center in the Jerome Library and the Technology and Resource Center in the Education Building.  In addition to Greek Life, additional campus-wide clubs and organizations are available, including education-related associations.

The World Language Education program at Bowling Green State University is an ACTFL (American Council on the Teaching of Foreign Languages) Nationally Recognized Program. All Teacher Education programs at BGSU are also fully accredited by NCATE (National Council for the Accreditation of Teacher Education).

Scholarships:

For information on scholarships available through the college of EDHD, please visit: EDHD Scholarships

Contact:
Dr. Brigid Burke, World Language Coordinator
527 Education Building
(inside 529 Ed. Curriculum and Teaching Department)
School of Teaching and Learning
Bowling Green, OH 43403
(419) 372-7324
Faculty page
stl@bgsu.edu