AMHERST, Mass.— The German and Scandinavian Studies program in the department of languages, literatures, and cultures at the Amherst has been designated a German Center of Excellence by the American Association of Teachers of German (AATG). The German Center of Excellence designation is presented only to, “well-established and growing German program[s] with strong support from the administration, colleagues, alumni, parents, and students.”
“This is truly a program that is designed to meet the needs of students,” wrote Michael R. Shaughnessy, executive director of the AATG, in a letter of congratulations to the program. Citing their strong ties to the wider community, exemplary faculty, extracurricular activities, special events, a “most impressive” curriculum, and dedication to students, he said the AATG found the UMass Amherst German program to be “excellent in every category.”
“Being designated a German Center of Excellence is a tremendous honor and prestigious distinction that not only recognizes our individual and joint efforts and work on and off campus, but also our contributions to the field of German studies and to the teaching of German language, culture, history, and society, and our continuous commitment to foster interdisciplinary connections to other departments, including STEM fields,” said Ela Gezen, associate professor and undergraduate program director in German and Scandinavian studies.
The German program at a German Center of Excellence is clearly student-centered and has credentialed faculty which demonstrates evidence of continuing professional development. The curriculum is standards-based with a clear, articulated sequence of instruction which reflects current methodologies. Classes are conducted in German. The materials and classroom routines are culturally authentic and appropriate to the instructional level of the students. Meaningful cultural activities are integrated into the curriculum at all levels.
An exemplary German program reflects a clearly organized structure determined by the instructional needs of the students. The diverse learning styles of students are respected through varied instructional and assessment techniques. Regular, differentiated assessments result in above average student performance.
The German and Scandinavian Studies program will be honored during the AATG Awards Presentation, which will take place virtually on Nov. 21, 2020, from 6 to 7:30 pm.