World Languages and International Education

Learning another language enriches our lives and prepares us to meaningfully interact with our neighbors both at home and abroad. In addition to being in the public and national interest because of positive economic effects, knowledge of other languages increases intellectual abilities and provides avenues for understanding other cultures. Improved language competencies enable nations to enact more effective trade policies, expand international business opportunities, and conduct diplomacy. In addition, acquiring other languages allows people to access and interpret ideas from around the world, leading to the development of truly global citizens.

World Languages Educators on the Learning Connection

For more information and resources for teachers, please join the IDOE - World Languages and Cultures Community on the Learning Connection.

International Education and Exchange Programs

International Education encompasses world languages and cultural learning, exposure to global issues and challenges, study and internships abroad, and international exchanges of students, professionals and ideas in the classroom, in the workplace, and in the virtual world. International Education includes learning about effective education policies and practices abroad that we might adopt to improve education.

• Partners in International Education

Resources and Documents

General World Language and International Education Resources

• Heritage Language Learner Standards
• Rosetta Stone in the World Language Program
• Schools Offering American Sign Language
• World Languages Resources

Professional Organizations

• The American Council on the Teaching of Foreign Languages is the only national organization dedicated to the improvement and expansion of the teaching and learning of all languages at all levels of instruction.
• The Central States Conference on the Teaching of Foreign Languages is a regional foreign language organization that serves 17 Midwestern states through its annual spring conference.
• The Indiana Foreign Language Teachers Association promotes the teaching and learning of world languages and cultures in Indiana by providing professional development opportunities for world language instructors and advocating for policies that advance world language instruction.