This program provides participants with the opportunity to connect theory to practice through an immersive learning experience at the University of Costa Rica (UCR). Through Middlebury’s continued partnership with the University of Costa Rica, TESOL student participants will fulfill our institution’s mission of international, collaborative learning and advocacy. This program is not yet credit-bearing, however, MIIS TESOL student participants who enroll will be able to gain practical teaching experience in an English as a foreign language (EFL) setting under the guidance and supervision of a faculty member. Participants will be leading an intensive English workshop for undergraduate students at UCR.

The coursework will focus on developing learner strategies and multimodal techniques for independent language learning. In order to inform and refine their own pedagogical practice throughout this experience, program participants will also be engaged in a reciprocative peer-to-peer observation and reflection exercise. As such, success in this program will require creativity, diligence, and collaboration from all participants.