An Alternative to the NDEA Institute

Abstract

THERE is general agreement among educators and others in public life that a major need today is the training of foreign language teachers. Not only is the field of foreign languages expanding but its methodology is undergoing radical changes. Traditional methods are being re-evaluated while new approaches to language learning are being advocated. Foreign languages are the subject of intensive experimental studies drawing upon the findings of linguistic science and utilizing the tools made possible by scientific advance. Not only do prospective teachers have to receive basic training in the new approaches to foreign language teaching but experienced teachers as well need the opportunity to make a critical appraisal of their methods and to become acquainted with the latest developments in the field. Foreign Language Institutes established by the National Defense Education Act have made a valiant attempt to cope with this urgent need for teacher training. They are providing an intensive program for many new and experienced teachers. The NDEA Institutes, however, cannot by themselves meet the need for teacher training which exists today. On the one hand, there are not enough openings for all the teachers who apply. On the other hand, many teachers who need further training cannot leave their homes in order to pursue their work on a college campus. Many cannot give up their family responsibilities. Moreover, there is a great number of teachers who for one reason or another do not wish to be involved in an all-day teacher training program. To these teachers can also be added the group of veteran teachers for whom very few places can be found in the NDEA Institutes. These are experienced teachers with a wide educational background who nevertheless feel a need to keep abreast of new developments in the field. Finally, there are the teachers whose school term ends too late to allow them to attend an NDEA Institute. For all these teachers, it is obvious that the NDEA Institutes cannot be of service.