Global English, Global Literacies with Dr. Cristina Banfi

Global English, Global Literacies with Dr. Cristina Banfi

This conversation explores the future of language learning, multiliteracies, bilingual education, and global communication in an AI-driven world. Dr. Banfi shares her international perspective on how language education has changed over time, from traditional grammar-based instruction to digital learning, gaming, social media, online communities, AI translation tools, and multilingual communication. The episode also examines English as a global language, the importance of heritage languages, dual language immersion, and how students today communicate across platforms using text, video, emojis, memes, and digital spaces. Dr. Banfi explains why educators must meet students where they are while helping them expand their literacy, communication skills, and cultural understanding. Listeners will also hear insights on AI in language education, translation tools, language policy, international education, and why learning an additional language helps build empathy, perspective, and human connection. Be sure to follow and tag Avant, The Language Proficiency Company on Facebook [https://www.facebook.com/AvantAssessment], Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/avantassessment/], LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/company/avant-assessment], and YouTube [https://www.youtube.com/@avantassessment]!

Leading a Program Toward Proficiency with Dawn Samples

This episode also dives into multiliteracies, authentic resources, literacy development, student engagement, teacher mindset shifts, and the role educational systems play in slowing meaningful change. Whether you are a language teacher, school leader, multilingual educator, or someone passionate about literacy and communication, this conversation offers practical insight and powerful perspective on what students truly need to succeed in an AI-driven and globally connected world. If you care about language proficiency, literacy instruction, multilingual learners, world language education, second language acquisition, or authentic learning practices, this episode is packed with valuable takeaways. Dawn Samples is the Lead for Instruction at Lingco, where she supports schools and districts in implementing proficiency-driven world language programs grounded in ACTFL standards. At Lingco, she helps design curriculum, professional learning, and AI-supported tools that empower teachers to move from theory to practice—creating engaging, performance-based learning experiences that build real-world language proficiency. Lingco is a comprehensive world language curriculum and primary resource provider and platform that combines authentic resources, integrated performance assessments, and instructional supports to help teachers focus on what learners can do with the language. Visit them at lingco.io [http://lingco.io/]! Contact Dawn for more information at dawn@lingco.io [dawn@lingco.io], or on social media (lingco) Facebook [https://www.facebook.com/LingcoLabs],(Dawn) linkedin [https://www.linkedin.com/in/adsamples], (Lingco) instagram [https://www.instagram.com/lingcolabs].      Be sure to follow and tag Avant, The Language Proficiency Company on Facebook [https://www.facebook.com/AvantAssessment], Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/avantassessment/], LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/company/avant-assessment], and YouTube [https://www.youtube.com/@avantassessment]!

Using AI with PBL in the language classroom with Dr. Rolla Elsaiary

Dr. Elsaiary shares insights from her work in Arabic immersion education, emphasizing the role of culture, identity, and project-based learning in developing true language proficiency. The episode also examines how AI tools like ChatGPT can support learning as thought partners, while reinforcing the need for students to ask better questions and think independently. Rolla Elsaiary is an Assistant Principal, instructional leader, and researcher specializing in Arabic language education. She focuses on project-based learning, culturally responsive teaching, and innovative, technology-enhanced instruction to empower 21st-century learners. Through her work, she supports teachers in designing engaging, student-centered classrooms that promote language proficiency and critical thinking. This conversation is essential for educators, school leaders, and anyone interested in multilingual education, digital literacy, and the future of learning. https://www.linkedin.com/in/rolla-elsaiary-45b27321?utm_source=share_via&utm_content=profile&utm_medium=member_ios [https://www.linkedin.com/in/rolla-elsaiary-45b27321?utm_source=share_via&utm_content=profile&utm_medium=member_ios] Intro & Guest Background Language as Thinking Project-Based Learning Real-World Application AI in Education Multiliteracies Closing Thoughts     Be sure to follow and tag Avant, The Language Proficiency Company on Facebook [https://www.facebook.com/AvantAssessment], Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/avantassessment/], LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/company/avant-assessment], and YouTube [https://www.youtube.com/@avantassessment]!

Introducing the PFM Framework with Dr. Liza Trejo and Marnina Falk-Colman

In this episode of The Multiliterate Mind, Dr. Liza Trejo and Marnina Falk Colman explore language proficiency, multiliteracy, and literacy development in modern education. They introduce the concept of proficiency-first multiliteracies, a framework designed to help educators better understand how students acquire language and develop reading and writing skills across multiple languages. The discussion highlights key challenges in today’s education system, including teaching multilingual learners in largely monolingual environments, balancing content and language instruction, and adapting to the rise of AI and digital communication. Listeners will gain insights into language acquisition, bilingual education, and the importance of teaching communication skills that extend beyond traditional literacy. This episode is ideal for educators, school leaders, and anyone interested in multilingualism, digital literacy, and the future of education.   Intro & Podcast Background Language & Education Journeys Challenges in Education Systems Proficiency & Multiliteracy Explained Modern Communication & AI Closing Thoughts Be sure to follow and tag Avant, The Language Proficiency Company on Facebook [https://www.facebook.com/AvantAssessment], Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/avantassessment/], LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/company/avant-assessment], and YouTube [https://www.youtube.com/@avantassessment]!

Literacy Across Languages with Paul Spence and Jonathan White

In this episode of The Multiliterate Mind, hosts explore the future of language learning with guests Paul Spence and Jonathan White, focusing on multiliteracy, language proficiency, and the impact of AI in education. This conversation dives into how language education is shifting beyond traditional methods toward real-world application, cultural literacy, and digital engagement. Topics include multilingual learners, student engagement strategies, the role of technology in the classroom, and why language skills are becoming more critical in a global economy. Whether you’re a teacher, school leader, or education professional, this episode provides actionable insights into modern language instruction, multiliteracies, and preparing students for the future of communication. Intro & Guest Background Language as Access Real-World Language Application Multiliteracies & Engagement Cultural Literacy AI & Language Learning Closing Thoughts   * ACTFL – https://www.actfl.org [https://www.actfl.org/] * Edutopia – https://www.edutopia.org [https://www.edutopia.org/] * Common Sense Media – https://www.commonsense.org [https://www.commonsense.org/]   Be sure to follow and tag Avant, The Language Proficiency Company on Facebook [https://www.facebook.com/AvantAssessment], Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/avantassessment/], LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/company/avant-assessment], and YouTube [https://www.youtube.com/@avantassessment]!