Language Networks for Excellence, previously the Black Country
Pathfinder, is part of the West Midlands Consortium for Routes into Languages
and is focusing on the mapping of progression routes into HE.
To facilitate progression routes into languages in HE, universities need
to be familiar with the changing face of language learning and accreditation
within the 14-19 sector, where a wide range of language courses and
accreditation is available including ‘traditional’ qualifications and
‘alternatives’.
To inform and extend HEI awareness of the current situation and specific trends
within the West Midlands, Networks for
Languages will audit provision and produce a generic curriculum map for the
area. This will draw primarily on
secondary data from sources such as QCA and awarding bodies, and will involve
collection of specific details from a number of schools and colleges in the
region.
The second step in this project will be the design of relevant bridging
curricula that will allow smooth transition for students who have followed a
variety of language progression routes in order to support them appropriately
as they proceed to HE.
Primary data will be collected through semi-structured telephone
interviews with, where possible, language department heads during the 07/08
Autumn term. Interviews should take no longer than half an hour.
If you would like to be involved in the research please contact Helen
Sargeant on 01902 518966 or H.Sargeant@wlv.ac.uk
