Master Program in Foreign Language Education at New York University Steinhardt (US)

Abstract

Abstract The article deals with master program in foreign language education at New York University Steinhardt (US). Thus, its peculiarities have been revealed. It has been defined that the study program presupposes mastering of foreign language teaching approaches that meet various needs of learners. It has been indicated that students acquire the understanding of educational conditions as well as economic, social and cultural factors influencing learning; develop professional knowledge of linguistics, (foreign) language acquisition, (foreign) language pedagogy, etc. The curriculum of the program is based on block-modular and interdisciplinary approaches that results in considerable flexibility. In addition, students have excellent opportunities to gain valuable practical experience and strengthen professional teaching skills during student teaching placements including abroad. It has been concluded that professional training of future specialists in the field of foreign language education on the example of New York University contributes to forming of modern, competitive philologists able to apply the latest teaching technologies, forms and methods to the educational process and adapt to fast-changing conditions of the educational environment. It has been emphasized that the abovementioned positive aspects of US experience in training foreign language teachers can be taken into account while developing national curricula in education, philology, linguistics, applied linguistics etc.