Advancing Language Learning and Internationalization through Curriculum Enhancement (ALLICE)

The ALLICE program is a collaborative effort between the Languages and Cultures Department and the Communication Department to pursue 3 objectives: 

Objective 1: Expansion of study abroad and cultural immersion opportunties

Expand study abroad and cultural immersion opportunities to Enhance students' cultural understanding by expanding study abroad opportunities, developing courses on Race and Ethnicity in Latin America and Spanish Media, creating a French travel seminar, expanding French courses, and fostering global cultural awareness among students. 

Faculty - Led Travel Seminars

MARTINIQUE & GUADELOUPE, FRENCH CARIBBEAN

History and Identity in Martinique and Guadeloupe, HNRS 309/FREN 3ST, FALL 2025

Instructor (s): Dr. Sophia Khadraoui - Fortune 

After a semester of in-depth study, students will embark on a transformative ten-day travel course to the breathtaking islands of Guadeloupe and Martinique in the French Caribbean. This immersive experience offers a unique opportunity to explore the region’s rich cultural heritage, tracing its indigenous roots, colonial history, and contemporary identity. Engage in thoughtfully curated excursions that showcase the islands' most distinctive aspects—from the diverse flavors of Creole cuisine and traditional artisanry to pristine beaches, lush rainforests, dynamic marketplaces, and historic landmarks, including centuries-old fortresses and (post)colonial monuments. Throughout the journey, refine your critical thinking and cross-cultural competencies through vlogging, journaling, and group discussions, fostering a deeper understanding of the complex social, historical, and environmental forces shaping the French Caribbean today.

Financial aid is available and scholarships are offered.

PUERTO RICO 

Race and Ethnicity in Latin America, SPAN 380X, Spring 2026

Instructor (s): Dr. Rafaela Fiore Urizar and Dr. Sheridan Wigginton 

After a semester of in-depth study, students will embark on an immersive two week travel experience to Puerto Rico, where they will engage in a comparative analysis of race and ethnicity in Latin America from the colonial era to the present day. Students will examine how national identity and language have been used to obscure deeply rooted racial hierarchies, gaining firsthand insight into the social and historical dynamics shaping the region. Through site visits, cultural interactions, and critical discussions, this experience brings classroom learning to life, deepening student's understanding of race, identity, and power in Latin America.

Financial aid is available and scholarships are offered.

See where Cal Lutheran can take you 

Objective 2:  Professional Development For Language Learners

This objective aims to enhance the professional development of language learners through the creation of an online format for the Spanish Bilingual Authorization Program and maintaining precise monitoring of students' performance using AVANT language assessment.

• Students can use the Avant STAMP 4S results when applying for the job market or graduate school as a way to verify their Spanish language skills.
• The test is aligned with the ACTFL proficiency guideline in terms of speaking, writing, listening, and reading in real-world situations in a spontaneous and non rehearsed context.

lEARN ABOUT THE AVANT EXAM HERE 

Objective 3 : Promotion of International Studies and Language Learning 

This objective aims to promote international studies and language learning by creating experiential learning opportunities, conducting workshops for faculty on developing travel seminars, and offering work experience in Spanish-language media to enhance coverage of Latinx issues in The Echo and El Eco.

THE ECHO/ El ECO Newspaper 

• “El Eco” is the Spanish-language newspaper at Cal Lutheran, that is inserted into the university’s student-produced newspaper, “The Echo,” and distributed across campus online as well as on a paper newsletter.
• Through the grant, we are able to provide work experience in Spanish-language media to broaden coverage of Latinx issues in The Echo and El Eco through the hiring of a beat reporter. 

Fall 2023 BEAT REPORTER : ERIKA FLORES 

Spring 2024 Beat reporter: VAL VIDAL  

Experiential Learning Trip to Los Angeles 

Students embarked on a day trip to Los Angeles, where they visited the Academy of Motion Picture Museum and had lunch at the French Bistro Chez Monsieur Marcel on November 16, 2024. Tickets and meals were covered by the ALLICE Grant.