Professional Teacher Development - PTD

The Background

Setting Aims

Since the 1980’s, English has become increasingly attractive as a working language for instruction in the Austrian school system. The PTD program provides the methods and experiences that enable Austrian teachers to become more proficient in English and, as well, become better classroom strategists for their own students.

Our program helps Austrian and Central European teachers to become more familiar with the American school system and American teaching methods. Using English in their everyday teaching lives helps the teachers to build a stronger content-based English vocabulary, and develop additional bilingual instructional skills that can strengthen Austrian pedagogy. Conversely, PTD teachers benefit America as they serve as subject area experts and cultural ambassadors, bringing Austrian charm to American cities. We believe this proven success should enable PTD to take on leadership role in disseminating and expanding its model to improve and promote bilingual instruction in Austrian schools.

The AAECA functions as an optimal generator of expertise, because of the excellent support it provides for our teachers. After their initial adjustment, our teachers gain competency and quickly develop excellent inter-personal relationships with their students and colleagues. Although they never lose what makes them Austrian, they gain some of the American exuberance and understanding of student diversity and cultural differences. When they return, our teachers state that they are glad not to have missed the experience in New York City, and often state that this year (these years) teaching abroad is (are), perhaps, equivalent to several years at home.

Currently the PTD is not restricted to Austrian teachers. Considering the number of other than Austrian participants from Central Europe, “We live a little EU”, could be considered part of our mission, because we believe that growing competency in another language through bilingual instruction is key to remaining competitive in a global market. The AAECA serves an important role in improving teaching skills and providing professional development, in the mutual acknowledgement of academic degrees, and in creating international education and professional growth. Furthermore, the AAECA fosters a proficient and future-oriented education for Austrian and American students.

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