Bilingual Education Advanced Certificate

Program Overview

The Bilingual Education Advanced Certificate program equips certified teachers with the skills to teach effectively in bilingual settings. Through coursework in language acquisition, pedagogy, assessment, and culture, participants develop proficiency in English and Spanish and gain strategies for incorporating bilingual education into their practice. The program prepares graduates for careers as bilingual teachers, curriculum developers, and other roles in bilingual education.

Program Outline

Bilingual Education Advanced Certificate

Degree Overview:

The Bilingual Education Advanced Certificate program is designed for individuals who already possess teaching certification and wish to expand their skills in bilingual education. This program is ideal for educators seeking to gain proficiency in both English and Spanish and incorporate bilingual education strategies into their teaching practice. The program emphasizes the development of language proficiency, cultural understanding, and pedagogical skills necessary to effectively teach students from diverse linguistic backgrounds.

Outline:

The program consists of 15 credit hours of coursework, typically completed within one to two years. Courses are offered in person and cover a range of topics related to bilingual education, including:

• Language Acquisition and Development
• Bilingual Education Pedagogy
• Assessment and Evaluation in Bilingual Education
• Linguistics and Culture in Bilingual Education
The program's outline typically includes the following:
• Course schedule: A detailed schedule outlining the specific courses offered, their sequencing, and meeting times.
• Individual modules: Descriptions of each module, including learning objectives, key topics covered, and assessment methods.

Assessment:

Assessment methods vary depending on the specific course but may include:

• Formative assessments: Ongoing evaluations used to monitor student progress and provide feedback.
• Summative assessments: Final evaluations used to measure student learning outcomes and attainment of course objectives.
• Performance-based assessments: Demonstrations of skills and knowledge through projects, presentations, or other practical activities.
• Reflective essays: Opportunities for students to critically analyze their learning and teaching experiences.

Teaching:

The program employs a variety of teaching methods, including:

• Lectures: Presentations by faculty members introducing key concepts and theoretical frameworks.
• Discussions: Interactive sessions where students engage in dialogue and analysis of relevant topics.
• Collaborative activities: Group projects and assignments promoting teamwork and application of knowledge.
• Fieldwork: Observation and participation in bilingual classroom settings to gain practical experience.
Faculty members are experienced educators with expertise in bilingual education and a strong commitment to student learning and success.

Careers:

Graduates of the program are prepared for a variety of careers in bilingual education, including:

• Bilingual teachers in K-12 schools
• Bilingual special education teachers
• Curriculum developers for bilingual programs
• Teacher trainers and professional development providers
• Researchers in the field of bilingual education

Other:

• The program is officially registered with the New York State Education Department (SED).
• This program is designed for individuals who are already certified teachers and wish to add bilingual education to their skill set.
• Individuals interested in the program must demonstrate native or near-native proficiency in both English and Spanish.