The African Language Teachers Association (ALTA) invites educators, researchers, students, and stakeholders to submit abstracts for its 2025 Annual Conference, taking place April 10–12, 2025, at the University of Pittsburgh in Pittsburgh, PA. Hosted by the Center for African Studies in collaboration with the Less Commonly Taught Languages (LCTL) Center.
Conference Theme and Subtopics
The 2025 ALTA Conference will explore the theme “Enhancing African Language Pedagogy: Integrating Disciplines, Professions, and Communities.” In an increasingly interconnected world, the teaching and learning of African languages must evolve to meet the demands of a diverse and globalized society. Participants will engage in discussions on how to incorporate cultural, social, and professional contexts into language instruction, making learning more relevant and impactful for students.
The conference will explore the integration of various disciplines, professions, and communities to enhance African language pedagogy. It will highlight innovative approaches that connect African language education with other areas of study, such as history, social sciences, health, technology, and the arts. Additionally, it will emphasize the role of community engagement, particularly the involvement of African diaspora communities, in enriching the language learning experience. By integrating disciplines, professions, and communities, we aim to empower educators to create more holistic, inclusive, and effective African language programs that prepare students to navigate and contribute to the complex realities of the modern world.
Key Conference Highlights
In an increasingly interconnected world, the teaching and learning of African languages must adapt to meet the demands of a diverse, globalized society. This conference aims to:
- Showcase innovative approaches that integrate cultural, social, and professional contexts into African language education.
- Highlight connections between African language instruction and other fields such as history, social sciences, health, technology, and the arts.
- Emphasize community engagement, including the involvement of African diaspora communities, to enrich language learning experiences.
By bringing together disciplines, professions, and communities, the conference seeks to empower educators to design inclusive, impactful African language programs that prepare students for today’s complex global realities.
Sub-themes
We welcome submissions that align with the conference theme and related sub-themes:
- AI and Machine Learning
- Computational Linguistics
- Gamification in Language Learning
- Digital Archiving
- Mapping African Language Use
- Diaspora Engagement
- Cross-disciplinary Alliances and Leadership
- Community Collaboration
- African Languages in African Studies
- Indigenous Knowledge Systems
- Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion
- On-Campus African Language Visibility
- Study Abroad
- Translation and Interpretation
- African Linguistics and Literature
Abstract Submission Details
- Submission Deadline: December 15, 2024
- Submission Link: Submit Your Abstract
- Abstracts should be clear, concise, and aligned with the conference theme or sub-themes.
Why Participate?
Join a vibrant community of professionals dedicated to advancing African language education. Share your insights, engage in thought-provoking discussions, and gain new perspectives to enhance your teaching and research practices.
For questions or additional information, please email [email protected].