This study examined the transformative effects of a transdisciplinary approach in two online Intermediate Spanish sections at Tidewater Community College, Norfolk, VA, U.S. Centered on a 'News Analysis Report' project, the course aligned language studies with contemporary issues relevant to Latinx communities, using a detailed rubric to track linguistic and cognitive progress. Although integrating academic research with language instruction presented challenges, the transdisciplinary methodology significantly improved learning outcomes. Strategic use of digital tools like Padlet and multimedia enriched this approach, enhancing its robustness and fostering greater communication and collaboration. This method elevated performance across the four core language skills—speaking, listening, reading, writing—and cultural integration. Quantitative data showed substantial improvements: 70% of students achieved A’s, 20% B’s, and 10% C’s, with no failures, outperforming previous iterations of the course that focused on traditional language instruction and general cultural information with limited transdisciplinary integration. Qualitative feedback indicated that students gained confidence in using Spanish to address global issues and discovered new motivations and practical applications for learning the language, enhancing their civic responsibility. Many leveraged these insights in community initiatives and noted the course's influence on their career aspirations in social justice, environmental sustainability, and international relations. This case study demonstrates that a transdisciplinary approach significantly boosts language proficiency and prepares students to tackle academic research and global challenges. By integrating interdisciplinary methodologies into language instruction, the course effectively equipped students to navigate the complexities of an interconnected world, influencing their civic and professional futures.

Authors:
Gabriela Christie-Toletti, Tidewater Community College, United States

About the Presenter(s)
Dr. Gabriela Christie Toletti is currently Foreign Languages Professor at Tidewater Community College (Norfolk, Virginia, U.S.), and Associate Adjunct Professor of World Cultural Studies at Old Dominion University (Norfolk, Virginia, U.S.).

Connect on Linkedin
https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-gabriela-christie-toletti

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