Integrating foundational language and content study through new approaches to hybrid learning and teaching

Abstract

The focus of this chapter is foundational foreign language teaching and learning that integrates content and language study in a hybrid environment. It offers a detailed description of how the open-access, web-based Acceso project implements an approach to intermediate-level Spanish study, consonant with recent discussions of integrated language and content instruction at all levels of instruction by means of a broad range of computer-assisted language learning applications. The chapter also argues for a characterization of Acceso’s content as “hybrid” with respect both to its collaborative development and maintenance and to how student engagement of this content is facilitated inside and outside of the classroom. Finally, the chapter discusses the benefits and challenges of developing and implementing such a project from a language program director’s perspective, as well as directions for its future.