Today@Dal

Adult learning environments in Canada have become increasingly culturally and linguistically diverse over the last decade. Linguistic diversity in the classroom –​ whether that means different languages, dialects, or levels of comprehension across the same language – ​can pose new challenges to the way we serve learners. It can also, however, open new educational horizons and possibilities.

In our upcoming online workshop on March 24, Supporting Linguistic Diversity in Teaching, Training, and Facilitation, you will have the chance to learn a range of techniques, strategies, and tools to support linguistic diversity in your teaching, training or facilitation context, and more effectively achieve learning outcomes for learners of all linguistic backgrounds.

If you’re wondering if this workshop is right for you, our workshop presenters, Dr. Jennifer MacDonald (Head Teacher, Department of English Language Studies) and Dr. Erin J. Careless (Director, Adult Learning and Teaching Initiatives) are here to answer some of the most common questions we hear:

What do you mean by linguistic diversity and why is it important?
MacDonald: Linguistic diversity is being linguistically aware of the variety of languages people speak and the cultures they come from. In environments where English is used as the primary language, it can be easy to forget about the variety of other languages spoken in our communities, and the rich diversity and value these languages bring to the table. By fostering an appreciation for other languages, we can create more inclusive and effective learning environments. 

What can I expect to get out of this two-hour workshop?
Careless: It will support your ability to identify different types of linguistic diversity you may encounter in a teaching/facilitating role and how to leverage those unique experiences in learning settings. You will also learn strategies for supporting linguistic diversity in both spoken and written communication, as well as online and face-to-face learning environments.

What kinds of activities can I expect to take part in during the workshop?
MacDonald: Interactive discussions where you will learn techniques, strategies, and tools to support linguistic diversity in your teaching and learning context.

What can I earn by attending this workshop?
Careless: After completing this workshop, you will receive a digital achievement badge you can display on a website, social media account, or in an email signature. It will reflect an earned skill in Supporting Linguistic Diversity in Adult Education.

Who is this workshop designed for?
MacDonald: It is ideal for anyone looking for skills to help support and leverage a wide range of linguistic capabilities in the learning or work environments such as instructors, trainers, facilitators, and faculty.

For more information on the workshop, please visit our registration section.