Welcome to DePaul University's Arabic Startalk Program Website!
DePaul University will host the federally funded Startalk Arabic language program for student Arabic immersion, and teacher training programs during the Summer of 2009. This summer will mark DePaul’s third consecutive program. Applications are due by WEDNESDAY JUNE 10th at 5pm. We strongly encourage all interested applicants to apply as soon as possible, as we will stop accepting applications after all spots have been filled.
Student Program Students entering grades 9, 10, 11, and 12 may be considered for the Student Program which will run from June 22nd – July 3rd. Students who have completed grade 12 and plan to pursue learning Arabic at colleges and universities are also considered. Prior knowledge or exposure to Arabic language is not a pre-requisite for eligibility. Students will be divided to levels according to their language skills. Heritage students are encouraged to apply.
Teacher Programs Two Arabic teacher-training programs will be offered during the Summer of 2009. Methods of Teaching Arabic will run from June 22nd – July 3rd, followed by a second session on teaching Arabic with technology which will run from July 6th to the 17th. Existing or prospective teachers in public schools, private schools, weekend schools organized by community organizations, colleges and universities, and individuals interested in Arabic language instruction are encouraged to apply for Methods of Teaching Arabic. Only previous Startalk attendees will be considered for the technology course.
The DePaul Arabic Startalk programs cover all instructional expenses and provide general incentives to participants. In addition to providing the opportunity to participate in DePaul quality education and teacher training programs, participants will receive, upon successful completion of the program, a DePaul Certificate of Completion, and a monetary stipend.
About STARTALK
STARTALK is the newest of the component programs of the National Security Language Initiative (NSLI) announced by former President Bush in January of 2006. The initiative seeks to expand and improve the teaching and learning of strategically important world languages that are not now widely taught in the US. Other programs under the NSLI umbrella include Title VI/Fulbright Hays programs of the US Department of Education, The National Security Education program of the National Defense University, and study abroad and exchange programs of the US Department of State.
STARTALK’s mission is to increase the number of Americans learning, speaking, and teaching critical need foreign languages by offering students (K–16) and teachers of these languages creative and engaging summer experiences that strive to exemplify best practices in language education and in language teacher development, forming an extensive community of practice that seeks continuous improvement in such criteria as outcomes-driven program design, standards-based curriculum planning, learner-centered approaches, excellence in selection and development of materials, and meaningful assessment of outcomes.