Conference FAQs 2022

Q: What is the time zone?

A: US Eastern Standard Time.We’ve scheduled workshops throughout the day so that our participants in many different time zones can participate live as well.

Q: How can I access the Zoom meetings?

A: We will post the schedule with Zoom links in the days prior to the conference.

Q: Are the sessions recorded?

A: YES! All language classes and workshops will be recorded and made available to you after the conference for over six months of viewing.Access ends on January 31st, 2023. It is also possible to purchase an extension for 3 more months if you want more time.

Q: What is the difference between classes and workshops? What about classes for teachers vs classes for students?

A: Classes for teachers: An opportunity for you to be a student! (See next question.)

Classes for students: An opportunity for you to OBSERVE elementary, middle and high school students engaged in a language class. (More below.)

Workshops: Presentations on particular topics related to language teaching. The workshops are scheduled in the afternoons Monday-Thursday. There are also workshops offered during the “Meet and Eat” times.

Q: What are the language classes for teachers?

A: We can't emphasize enough the importance of being a student in a language different from one you speak! Especially if you are new to comprehension input (CI)-based classes. We are offering several options  to give you the experience of being a student. We’ve planned these classes to work with east and west coast time zones. 

Q: What if I decide to switch language classes?

A: Of course we think it is valuable to stick with your language class over the full five days- not only to feel what it feels like to acquire a language this way, but also to learn valuable teaching strategies. All the other classes will be recorded, so you don't need to feel like you need to bounce around to experience everything. But, if the class doesn't feel like a good match to you of course you can decide to do something else! There are no rules for your participation-- this conference is for YOU!

Q: Can I observe the language classes for students?

A: YES! That is why they are here! We’ve recruited students to participate in classes all week to offer them an exciting approach to acquiring language, but also to allow you to observe a teacher teaching real-live students! You will get to observe many different techniques and strategies. You can feel free to come and go into whatever classes you choose-- just make sure your camera is off and you are muted! We also ask that you not use the chat while the class is in session. You might want to stick with one teacher in one class all week, or bounce around to experience many different styles and approaches. Remember, the classes will be recorded so you can watch them later!

Also, your children can participate for FREE. Sign up coming soon.

Q: Can I have my camera turned off during classes and workshops?

Again, there are no rules! Except that you NEED to have your camera off if you are observing a student class. Otherwise, do as you wish. If you are a student in a language class your teacher would prefer to see you. But it is fine if you would like to be an observer with no camera.

Q: What are the “debriefs”? 

A:  At the end of every language class you will have the chance to reflect upon and discuss what you observed. We want you to think about what the instructor did to create community and to help students feel comfortable. We’d also like you to dialogue around how the instructor made the language comprehensible for students. This is when you’ll  have a chance to hear from the instructor and to ask questions. 

Q: There is so much on the schedule! Should I be at my computer all day?

A: No!!! Unless you want to, of course. We planned everything to try to work with people from Alaska to Croatia! So, there is something offered from 8am-9pm!! Partake in as much or as little as you like!

Q: What’s up with the yoga and dance classes?

A: We all need to get up and get moving! These sessions will help us remember to move and breathe and have fun! The Zumba classes will be “cameras off”. You can choose to have your camera off in the other classes as well. These sessions will not be recorded.

Q: Will lunch and evening activities be recorded?

A: It depends. If they are casual conversations or involve break-out rooms, no. If they are informative sessions, yes.

Q: Do I get a Certificate of Completion?

A: Yes! We will post it on this site at the end of the conference. There will be 30 and 60-hour options.

Q: How do I sign up for graduate-level credit? How many credits can I get?

A: You can get from 1-6 credits depending on the amount of work you want to do. Credits are through the University of the Pacific- so all questions should be directed to them. All the info you need can be found here. 

Q: This is my first workshop on comprehensible input/acquisition driven instruction. What do you recommend I do?

A: Be a student in a new language!!! Observe language classes. We will also  curate the list of workshops to choose our most recommended for you as you set off on your CI journey! 

Q: Where do I go for questions during the conference?

A: We have a designated “help desk” everyday. Just click the provided link on the schedule and help is on the way!

We also have a Padlet. It’s kind of like a bulletin board. Post your questions there and feel free to answer any you know the answers to.