Colgate University is leading a conversation on how to modernize and reinvigorate language education with its recent Conference on Innovative Approaches to Language Education. The March 27–28 event, organized in partnership with regional research consortium CNY Humanities Corridor, served as a working forum for 125 educators from institutions ranging from the University of Arizona to Hamilton College.
Along with interactive presentations and roundtable discussions covering a range of topics — from the role of AI and cross-campus collaboration to gender inclusivity and cultivating empathy — each day featured a keynote address. Friday’s keynote was offered by Meg Malone, ACTFL director of assessment and research, on “Motivations for Enrolling (and Not Enrolling) in Languages: Potential for Innovation in Language Programs.” Saturday’s session shifted focus to “All Hands on Deck: Strategic Solutions To Shore Up Language Programs in Uncertain Times,” given by Associate Professor of Spanish Leanne Spino-Seijas from the University of Rhode Island.
“I thought the conference was extremely timely,” said Colgate Associate Professor of Chinese Jing Wang. “Language professors from around the country gathered to share their innovative practices. This concerted effort inspired us to look at new ways in which language learning with human teachers is absolutely irreplaceable by AI.”
A key concept emphasized throughout the conference was “language program vitality,” a strategic approach in the field that involves students being actively engaged and understanding why they are studying a language. The focus extends beyond grammar and reading comprehension to include cultural understanding and human connection. Regardless of proficiency level, it helps students develop a deeper awareness of communication as a whole.
To support this vitality, presenters highlighted a dual focus on program administration and classroom innovation, working together to help instructors adapt to evolving student needs. Notable strategies included self-instructional language programs, which allow students to study languages not formally offered at their institutions, and the integration of Culture and Languages Across the Curriculum programs, which incorporate language components into non-language courses to encourage interdisciplinary immersion.
“At a time when global understanding is more critical than ever, this conference served as a reminder that language is an indispensable vehicle for thought,” said Franziska Merklin, senior lecturer of Italian and research affiliate in Romance languages and literatures. “Teaching foreign languages is at the very heart of educating aware, empathetic, and persevering human beings.”
Looking ahead, organizers hope the conference, which was free to attend thanks to funding from the CNY Humanities Corridor, will foster ongoing partnerships and research to support language advocacy across higher education.
Cory Duclos, director of Colgate’s Keck Center for Language Study, hopes that the strategies and ideas exchanged at the conference will have a direct impact on students at Colgate.
“This conference helps foster more meaningful conversations about the value of language study,” said Duclos. “In addition to promoting effective learning strategies — such as courses or informal workshops that teach students how to learn a language and improve their skills independently outside the classroom — I hope participants recognize the strong support from the administration and the importance of collaboration.”