NALRC Annual Summer Institute
Elevate your skills as an African language educator!
The Summer Institute is a two-week NALRC intensive program that allows you to participate in a professional development workshop that focuses on the following themes:
- Standards-Based Curriculum Design: Learn to use thematically organized backward curriculum design with performance assessment in the three modes of communication.
- Integrated Instruction: Discover methods to incorporate language, culture, and content in Less Commonly Taught Languages (LCTL) classrooms.
- Learner-Centered Approach: Learn how to create a classroom environment that prioritizes student engagement and active learning.
2026 Program Dates:
Monday, 18th - Friday 29th, May 2026
Institute Format:
The NALRC Summer Institute will combine remote instructions with an in-person practicum.
Week One (May 18 - 22): synchronous online instruction via Zoom. The instruction will focus on the principles and methods for quality instruction, curriculum, and assessments for African Languages, which will be applied in the second week.
Week Two (May 26 - 29): in person at IU Bloomington. Participants will be immersed in intensive microteaching sessions. [Monday 25th is a public holiday; also date to travel to Bloomington]
Participation in the institute requires a commitment to completing both weeks of training.
For the convenience of the workshop participants: We usually block a limited number of rooms at the BIDDLE HOTEL, located at the INDIANA MEMORIAL UNION on the IU Campus. | |
Arrival Date: | Monday, May 25, 2025 [This day is also a public holiday] |
Departure Date: | Saturday, May 31, 2025 |
Room Rate: |
To be determined. |
Hotel Group Code: | N/A |
Call Biddle: Reserve Online via this link | |
The in-person workshop will be held at the Hamilton Lugar School of Global and International Studies, located at 355 N Eagleson Ave, Bloomington, IN 47405.
The nearest major airport serving Bloomington is the Indianapolis International Airport (IND). Named one of the top ten airports in the U.S., the facility is attractive and easy to use.
Airport Symbol: IND
Location: 50 miles north of Bloomington
Ground Transportation from Indianapolis International Airport to Bloomington and return
Go Express Travel (Shuttle Service)
Service: Multiple daily trips between Indianapolis International Airport (IND) and the Bloomington campus
Advanced Reservations: Highly recommended
Rate: $33 one way (subject to change)
Reservations:www.goexpresstravel.com
Telephone: 800‑589‑6004 or 812‑332‑6004
Airport Pick-Up Location: Ground Transportation Center, lower level, outside baggage claim.
Other transportation options can be found here: https://www.ind.com/transportation-car-rental/scheduled-bus-service
My favorite part of the program was during the second week, where we had to demonstrate all we learnt from the first week. The participants had to be students and simulate teaching the language to the other participants. I also got to experience the point view of new language speakers and the problems they go through. This activity made me better understand what our students experience as foreign language learners.Felicity Tackey-Otoo, PhD
Though this was not my first time attending a professional training workshop, this one stood out for a variety of reasons. First of these was the structure of the workshop that allowed for hands-on experience, discussion, and reflection. Another great feature of this workshop was the people, both trainers and trainees. From the very beginning if felt like we are a family, giving the training a friendly vibe.Mahmoud Ali
And as a teacher for the past 26 years I must confess, I have never had any training this excellent, rewarding and full of impact. It really is transforming.Aderibigbe Moronmubo, PhD
To apply for a spot in the upcoming NALRC Annual Summer Institute:
- Complete an online application form. For the form, you will need:
- Your resume
- Statement of Purpose: Briefly state in English why you are interested in participating in this training institute and what you hope to gain from the experience. [Maximum of 350 words allowed]
A letter of recommendation from qualified individuals indicating the importance of the workshop to you. Share this recommendation form with your recommender.