GERMAN LANGUAGE FUTURE TEACHERS TRAINING IN HIGHER EDUCATIONAL INSTITUTIONS OF THE USA

Abstract

The article deals with the issues of future German language teachers training in higher educational institutions of the United States of America. It is determined that the training of future German language teachers is carried out according to educational programs that consist of several compulsory courses (German, English, methods of teaching foreign languages) and a wide range of elective courses. The generalization of the content of German language teacher training programs is presented. Three main blocks of courses that are offered for study within these educational programs are identified. To improve the acquired language skills, a separate German language course is provided, which is detailed in various topics. In general, much attention is paid to the development of free speech through systematic conversations on civilization and various topical issues. At the same time, it is worth noting the individualization of training, as for this purpose morphological and phonetic exercises are often developed according to the needs and level of knowledge of each individual student. The methodological block of the program contains empirical studies of teaching foreign languages to children and adults. At the same time, theoretical foundations of foreign language teaching: approaches, methods, techniques are also mastered. Pedagogical practice is obligatory. Students can implement the acquired knowledge of German language teaching methods through practical application, including lesson planning, classroom observation, materials development and technology integration. The combination of the above mentioned blocks of the program is special topics in German, which include literature or literary criticism, linguistics, linguistic pedagogy. Elective courses are aimed not only at improving the level of German language proficiency, but also cover the study of literature, history and culture of German-speaking countries, as well as familiarization with their media. The importance of compulsory practice in teaching German and the possibility of studying and internships abroad is stated. It is found that the vast majority of future German language teachers in the United States have a bachelor's degree and only about a third – a master's degree. It is established that special attention is paid to the formation and development of speech skills and intercultural communication skills.
 Keywords: future teachers training; program; university; students; higher education institutions; German language.