Framework and Implementation of the Jyvaskyla TCE/TCFL Programmes

The first teacher in-service development program in foreign language content instruction was run by the Continuing Education Centre of the University of Jyvaskyla in 1991-1992 as a contract program for the City of Kokkola. The success of that program led to the development of the present Teaching Content in a Foreign Language (TCFL) Program, which offers the opportunity to specialize in the teaching of non-language subjects through English or German. The aim of the program is to provide the teacher and the institute in which he operates an opportunity to develop his expertise to teach in either English or German to an optimum level. Before initiating a TCFL program, various issues to be considered include clarification of aims, cooperation and collaboration, methodological approaches, teaching materials, assessment of results, follow-up, sharing of information, and public relations. The range of subjects covered in the current program include general and vocational subjects. The program comprises six modules of contact study, spread out across 12 months. The design of the program follows general principles of TCFL. The general framework and module descriptions are discussed. Participant feedback on all programs has been extremely positive. (CK)