Dual Language Specialization

Dual language bilingual programs serve K-12 students with the goals of developing students’ bilingualism, biliteracy, and biculturalism.  Sometimes these programs are also referred to as dual immersion or two-way immersion because the classrooms are generally comprised of approximately half native English speakers and half native speakers of the other target language who learn academic content together.

The Dual Language Specialization is “added value” on an Oregon-issued teaching license, indicating that the educator has demonstrated exceptional knowledge, skills and dispositions in dual language bilingual pedagogy and practice.  The Dual Language Specialization meets standards set by the Oregon Teacher Standards and Practices Commission (TSPC).  Our program was approved by Oregon’s Teacher Standards and Practices Commission (TSPC) on June 23, 2020. 

The Dual Language Specialization (DLS) provides opportunities to gain cross-cultural competencies and increase language proficiency skills through teaching linguistically and culturally diverse K-12 students and interacting with these students’ families in the communities where they live.

Graduates may earn the DLS by pursing the ESOL endorsement, an additional DL methodology course and participating in field and clinical experiences in a dual language classroom.  Proficiency in English and a language other than English is a necessity.  The following table show the requirements for adding a DLS to an initial teaching license.

Dual Language Specialization Curriculum for Post Baccalaureate, Post Master’s, and Masters in Art of Teaching (MAT)

Want More Information?

Watch a video regarding dual language programs in schools: Elementary Focus and All Level Focus or contact Dr. Sally J Hood, Associate Professor.

Sally J Hood
Associate Professor
hood@up.edu
503.943.7226 or 1.800.546.3633