In today’s globalized economy, the ability to communicate in multiple languages is an increasingly valuable asset in the job market. Yet, the importance of multilingualism in Career and Technical Education (CTE) is often overlooked. Thankfully, forward-thinking initiatives like the one led by Executive Director Dr. Michael Herrera at Upper Bucks County Technical School (UBCTS) in Pennsylvania are reshaping the landscape of CTE by recognizing and credentialing language proficiency among students.
Leveraging Language as an Employability Asset
Dr. Herrera’s recent initiative, “Leveraging Language as an Employability Asset in CTE,” at UBCTS in partnership with Language Testing International highlights a crucial aspect of modern education: the intersection of language skills with employability and economic mobility. This pioneering initiative acknowledges the diverse linguistic backgrounds of CTE students and seeks to harness their language abilities to enhance their job prospects and earning potential.
When Dr. Herrera and his administration realized that over 100 students possessed proficiency in languages other than English, they decided to implement a language credentialing program. The program, which assesses students’ language skills with the ACTFL Assessment of Performance toward Proficiency in Languages (AAPPL), offers students the opportunity to officially demonstrate their language ability.
Benefits of Language Credentialing
Career Opportunities
One of the most significant benefits of credentialing language proficiency lies in its potential to open doors to a wide range of career opportunities. In an increasingly interconnected world, businesses and organizations value employees who can communicate effectively with diverse audiences. A language credential not only enhances a student’s resume but also signals to employers their readiness to engage in multicultural contexts, thereby increasing their marketability in various industries.
Financial Benefits
Furthermore, the economic incentives associated with multilingualism cannot be overstated. Studies show bilingual individuals often earn higher salaries compared to their monolingual counterparts. This is particularly relevant in sectors where language skills are in high demand, such as healthcare, tourism, and hospitality. By equipping CTE students with language credentials, schools like UBCTS are not only preparing them for immediate employment but also setting them on a trajectory towards higher earning potential and career advancement.
Student Self-Identity
Perhaps equally important is the impact of language credentialing on students’ self-perception and sense of identity. For many multilingual individuals, their language proficiency may have been perceived as a barrier or source of embarrassment in the past. However, initiatives like the one led by Dr. Herrera provide validation and recognition of students’ linguistic talents, fostering a sense of pride and empowerment. “It feels so great to feel like my Spanish is valued instead of being something I was embarrassed of. I can’t wait to share my language certificate with my boss and get paid more for my bilingual ability!” Daniela C., student Upper Bucks County Technical School.
Further Education
The benefits of language credentialing extend beyond immediate employment opportunities. In an increasingly competitive academic landscape, proficiency in multiple languages can significantly enhance students’ prospects for further education and advanced training programs. Many colleges and universities recognize the value of multilingualism and offer incentives such as language proficiency credits or specialized programs for bilingual students. By obtaining a language credential in high school, CTE students gain a competitive edge in college admissions and scholarship applications, paving the way for continued academic success.
State Seal of Biliteracy
Many CTE students, particularly English Language Learners, may not be aware of the opportunities the Seal of Biliteracy presents. By making the Seal available to them, schools not only open doors to additional career and educational prospects but also validate students’ heritage languages and cultural identities. Even if students do not qualify for the seal due to proficiency, they can still demonstrate their language abilities with an official ACTFL certificate through assessments like the AAPPL. This ensures that every student’s linguistic talents are recognized and celebrated, contributing to a more inclusive and supportive learning environment.
Why Certify Language Skills with ACTFL Assessments?
Focus on Proficiency
Unlike traditional achievement tests or vocabulary/grammar assessments, ACTFL assessments evaluate a learner’s ability to use the language effectively in real-life situations.
Alignment with CTE Programming
Like the focus of standard CTE programming, language proficiency considers the applied use of language in real-life settings.
Professional Credential
ACTFL certificates provide official language credentials and are widely recognized and accepted by businesses, academic institutions, and government agencies.
College Credit Opportunities
ACTFL assessments can potentially earn college credit for learners if they pursue a four-year degree program, furthering their educational and career opportunities.
Conclusion
The initiative spearheaded by Dr. Michael Herrera at UBCTS serves as a shining example of the transformative power of multilingualism in CTE. By recognizing and credentialing language proficiency, schools can empower students to unlock a world of opportunities, both professionally and personally. As the global economy continues to evolve, the ability to communicate across linguistic and cultural boundaries will be a crucial skill for success. Therefore, integrating language credentialing programs into CTE curriculum not only benefits individual students, but also strengthens the workforce and economy as a whole. It’s time for educators and policymakers to embrace the power of multilingualism and pave the way for a more inclusive and prosperous future.
Watch the video: Why Language Credentialing in CTE?
Sources
ACTFL. “Making Languages Our Business: Addressing Foreign Language Demand Among U.S. Employers.” www.languageconnectsfoundation.org. 2019.
“Bilingual employees can earn more money per hour than those who speak one language.” Financial Post. financialpost.com. 2021.
