The Dual Language Program Planner: A Guide for Designing and Implementing Dual Language Programs

Abstract

This guide offers a framework to facilitate the planning process for dual language programs, assuming at least a basic working knowledge of the central characteristics and essential features of dual language models. It provides an overview of the various models that serve linguistically diverse student populations, defining the term dual language as including four types of programs: developmental bilingual programs, two-way immersion programs, foreign/second language immersion programs, and heritage language immersion programs. The guide presents five steps in the planning process: clarifying the mission; gathering information (e.g., population, parent/community support, administrative support, teacher support, teaching materials, instructional strategies, goals, student assessment, and program evaluation); choosing a program model (with a quiz designed to be a starting point for a conversation about which model may be most appropriate); assessing readiness to implement a dual language program; and action planning (determining what remains to be done to be ready for implementation, prioritizing the tasks, and generating a timeline). Recommended resources and publications and products are attached. (SM)