Outside the Box: Liberating Minds through Extracurricular Activities

Session Submission Type: Roundtable

Brief Description

Abstract: This round table session brings together three experts in the field of language education to discuss the innovative use of extracurricular activities in developing intercultural competency within East European language programs. Through an interactive dialogue, the presenters will share their experiences and insights into the integration of cultural celebrations and creative activities into the curriculum to enhance bilingual students' engagement and learning in order:

Julia Katsnelson will introduce the concept of learning language through cultural celebrations, detailing pre-celebration activities that encourage a deep understanding of cultural traditions.

Tatiana Kuzina, will discuss her hands-on experience with organizing extracurricular activities for bilingual students, focusing on the observed benefits and practical challenges.

Julia Kobrina will address the acquisition of intercultural competency through these activities, proposing future directions for expanding such programs in DLIFLC and beyond.

Discussion Points:

How can educators effectively blend cultural events into language learning curricula?

What are the best practices for engaging students in extracurricular activities?

What are the potential obstacles in implementing these activities and how can they be overcome?

How do extracurricular activities prepare students for a globalized world?

Conclusion: This round table will facilitate a rich exchange of ideas, providing attendees with a diverse range of perspectives and strategies to apply in their own teaching practices. The aim is to foster a community of educators committed to innovating language education through extracurricular engagement.

Sub Unit

• Linguistics/Language Pedagogy/Translation

Chair

• Vincent Zubrow

Roundtable Members

• Julia Katsnelson, U of Vermont

• Julia Kobrina, Defense Language Institute

• Tatiana Kuzina, City U of Seattle