Michigan State University Center for Language Education and Research (CLEAR).(NEWS FROM SPONSORING ORGANIZATIONS)

CLEAR's mission is to promote the teaching and learning of foreign languages in the United States. Projects focus on materials development, professional development training, and foreign language research.

CLEAR has been awarded funding for the Language Resource Centers' 2010-14 funding cycle. We look forward to this fifth cycle and to continuing our service to the language education community. In addition, we are very pleased to continue our co-sponsorship of LLT along with our partners.

PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT

Four professional development workshops are slated for July 2011:

* Rich Internet Applications for Language Learning: Introductory Techniques

* Adding Variety to Reading and Vocabulary Lessons

* Project-Based Learning in the Language Classroom

* Using Video to Promote Language Development in the Classroom

Detailed information on all workshops can be found on our Web site: http://clear.msu.edu/clear/ professionaldev/summerworkshops.php.

NEW PRODUCT

We have recently released our new Introductory Business Chinese CD-ROM. The software is intended mainly for use by those who have little or no knowledge of the Chinese language but who, for any number of different reasons, wish to learn more about business and economics in the Chinese environment.

MATERIALS DEVELOPMENT

CLEAR is developing several new products during our fifth funding cycle. Check our Web site for updates on new products and services. Some of our upcoming projects include:

* Professional development webinars on diverse topics

* Online videos for language teaching techniques

* Online listening and speaking tests for LCTLs

* Applications for language learning on mobile devices

CONFERENCES

CLEAR exhibits at local and national conferences year-round. We hope to see you at ACTFL, CALICO, MIWLA, Central States, and other conferences.

NEWSLETTER

CLEAR News is a free bi-yearly publication covering FL teaching techniques, research, and materials. Download PDFs of back issues and subscribe at http://clear.msu.edu/clear/newsletter/.