EDUTLN X300 - Teaching Spanish to Heritage Speakers
This advanced-level course equips K–12 teachers with the tools to effectively support Spanish Heritage Language Learners—students who speak Spanish at home but have received most of their formal education in English. Participants will learn how to build on learners’ existing linguistic and cultural strengths to foster biliteracy and create culturally responsive classrooms. Through practical strategies and interactive sessions, educators will gain confidence in meeting the unique needs of heritage learners and promoting their academic success.
Delivery Options
Online, Live: This course is delivered through live online sessions, allowing for real-time interaction with instructors and peers. Activities include discussions, guided readings, and collaborative projects focused on effective strategies for heritage language instruction.
Time to Completion
Approximately 40 hours, from June 9 through July 28, 2026.
Course Completion Requirements
Active participation in all live sessions, completion of assigned readings, and submission of final reflective work are required to earn Continuing Education Units (CEUs).
Technology Requirements
- Reliable internet connection and webcam for live online participation
- Access to Lingco and potentially Hypothesis for course activities
- Access to Canvas, Ohio State's online learning platform (login details are provided after registration; access may take up to an hour and will begin on May 26, 2026, two weeks before the course start date)
- The recommended browser is the latest version of Google Chrome or Mozilla Firefox
What You’ll Learn
Upon successful completion of this course, participants will be able to:
- Read and discuss material related to Spanish as a heritage language in the U.S., including bilingual language development, critical language pedagogy, and program design relevant to K–12 and university contexts.
- Develop beliefs and instructional tools aligned with critical approaches to teaching heritage learners that incorporate social justice, growth in language use, and critical thinking throughout the curriculum.
- Gain confidence in advocating for heritage speakers within their institutions and professional communities.
What You’ll Earn
- Continuing Education Units (CEUs) issued by The Ohio State University’s College of Arts and Sciences.
Additional Information
This course is offered by the Department of Spanish and Portuguese at The Ohio State University and is designed for K–12 educators seeking advanced strategies in teaching Spanish to heritage speakers. This is an online-live course with scheduled zoom meetings on the following dates and times (all times are Eastern Standard Time):
- June 9th — 6:00pm to 8:30pm
- June 16th — 6:00pm to 8:30pm
- June 23rd — 6:00pm to 8:30pm
- June 30th — 6:00pm to 8:30pm
- July 7th — 6:00pm to 8:30pm
- July 14th — 6:00pm to 8:30pm
- July 21st — 6:00pm to 8:30pm
- July 28st — 6:00pm to 8:30pm
Contact Us
For questions about enrollment, payment options, technology support, or course records, please contact our Enrollment Support team. Inquiries are typically answered within 24 business hours.
For questions about course content or learning objectives, please contact Kim Potowski at kimpotow@uic.edu.