Curriculum development and language training
MA Technologies School of Language and Cultural Studies (SLCS) provides personalized language and cultural training to U.S. government employees. Our offerings, ranging from traditional classroom settings to flexible online options, are designed to meet the unique needs of each individual and their role. The School of Language and Cultural Studies is divided into instructional and functional divisions.
Instructional Division
The following five instructional divisions provide training in over 60+ languages:
- East Aisia & Pacific
- European & African
- Romance
- Slavic & Eurasian
- Near East, Central, & South Asian
Each division has a team focused on supporting students in meeting their language training goals. This team is composed of:
Division Director (DVD):
Oversees all language sections within the division and implements program and division goals.
Deputy Division Director (DVD):
Oversees the operational aspects of the division. Directly supervises training specialists.
Language Training Supervisors (LTS):
Oversee training specialists, instructors and students.
Training Specialists: (TS):
Non-supervisory staff specializing in curriculum, coaching, technology, or testing support student development and program implementation.
Language and Culture Instructors (LCI):
Native or near-native speakers who provided classroom instruction and out-of-classroom support.
Functional Divisions
In addition to the five language divisions, five functional divisions support the mission of SLCS.
Leaning and Technology Innovation (LTI) drives SLCS in evidence-based innovation in language teaching and learning for foreign service contexts, including program development and instructional technology. It also prioritizes staff development.
Evaluation and Measurement Unit (EMU) supports staff in collecting and analyzing data to measure program effectiveness, identify areas for improvement, and make data-driven decisions to enhance program outcomes.
Foreign Service Programs (FSP) Supports language training at overseas posts by offering Distance Language Learning programs and post-specific Language Programs. Additionally, FSP provides the In-Language Media Practicum for Foreign Service members who frequently interact with the media.
Administration (ADMIN) manages the central operational functions of SLS, such as contract management, budget allocation, hiring priorities, and travel planning.
Language Testing and Assessment (LTA) Administers the language proficiency testing program, overseeing test administration, maintaining testing records, and ensuring quality control. LTA is committed to ensuring that all tests are valid and reliable for all examinees.