ACTFL Conference Insights: Reflections on Online Language Learning and World Language Education

In November 2025, members of the LanguageBird team attended the annual ACTFL Conference, one of the most influential gatherings in the field of world language education. Held this year in New Orleans, the conference brought together thousands of educators, researchers, institutions, and organizations committed to improving how languages are taught and learned across learning environments.

Representing LanguageBird at ACTFL were Meara Glover, Head of School, and Talia Siegel, Curriculum and Instructor Manager. They were also joined by LanguageBird instructors, including 2025 Instructor of the Year Joanne Hanckowiak and Budimka Uskokovic, who presented at the conference. Being able to learn alongside and reconnect with our instructors made the experience especially meaningful.

While conferences can sometimes blend together, ACTFL stood out for both the depth of ideas shared and their direct relevance to online language learning today.

What Is ACTFL and Why It Matters for World Language Education

ACTFL, the American Council on the Teaching of Foreign Languages, is an international organization that supports language educators across K–12 schools, higher education, and alternative learning models. Its annual conference features hundreds of sessions on proficiency-based instruction, cultural learning, assessment, equity, instructional design, and educational technology.

For LanguageBird, ACTFL plays an important role in shaping best practices in world language education. Attending the conference helps ensure our programs remain aligned with current research, classroom realities, and the evolving needs of students and educators.

Why LanguageBird Attends the ACTFL Conference

We attended ACTFL with three clear goals:

• To learn from educators, researchers, and practitioners shaping language education

• To connect with instructors, universities, and mission-aligned organizations

• To reflect critically on how new ideas and tools fit into our online language programs

Over several days, our team attended sessions large and small, engaged directly with presenters, explored the exhibit hall, and participated in conversations that extended well beyond scheduled sessions.

Meeting LanguageBird instructors in person was a standout experience. In a primarily online learning environment, these face-to-face moments reinforced the importance of relationships in effective teaching, collaboration, and program quality.

Key ACTFL Conference Insights for Online Language Learning

Proficiency and Culture in Effective Language Learning

Across sessions and conversations, one message was consistent. Language learning is most effective when proficiency and culture are taught together.

Successful world language education goes beyond memorizing vocabulary and grammar rules. Students develop real communicative ability when they engage with cultural context, identity, and authentic use of language. This principle continues to guide LanguageBird’s instructional approach across all courses.

Thoughtful Use of AI in Online Language Education

Artificial intelligence was a prominent topic throughout the conference, especially in the exhibit hall. While many tools focus on chatbots or simulated conversations, not all are designed with sound pedagogy in mind.

The tools that stood out were those created by linguists and educators. These platforms use AI to support learning through guided practice, feedback, and self-directed exploration rather than attempting to replace human instructors. As online language learning continues to evolve, discernment remains critical.

LanguageBird approaches educational technology thoughtfully. Any new tool must support instructional goals, preserve human connection, and enhance meaningful learning.

Building Community in World Language Education

Some of the most valuable moments at ACTFL happened outside formal sessions. Conversations with presenters, university representatives, instructors, and organizations working toward similar missions sparked ideas around collaboration, professional development, and shared learning opportunities.

Innovation in world language education grows through community. ACTFL reinforced the importance of maintaining strong connections across the field.

Applying ACTFL Insights to LanguageBird’s Online Language Programs

One of the most important outcomes of attending ACTFL was translating what we learned into insights relevant across departments, including instruction, curriculum development, technology evaluation, and partnerships.

We returned with:

• Curated instructional resources to share with instructors

• New perspectives on evaluating educational technology

• Strengthened relationships within the language education community

• Renewed clarity around what makes effective, human-centered online language learning

These insights directly inform how we support students, instructors, and families.

Why ACTFL Conference Learning Matters for Students, Families, and Educators

For parents and students, conference attendance may happen behind the scenes, but its impact is tangible. Staying engaged with the broader education community helps ensure LanguageBird courses remain academically rigorous, culturally rich, and aligned with how languages are truly learned.

For educators, instructors, and partners, our participation reflects a commitment to collaboration, professional growth, and thoughtful innovation in online language education.

Looking Ahead in Online and World Language Education

ACTFL reinforced that language education continues to evolve and that listening, learning, and connecting are just as important as teaching.

LanguageBird remains committed to staying engaged with educators, research, and best practices in world language education. We look forward to continuing to bring these insights into our work with students, instructors, and partners around the world.

Frequently Asked Questions About ACTFL and Online Language Learning

What is the ACTFL Conference?

The ACTFL Conference is an annual event hosted by the American Council on the Teaching of Foreign Languages. It brings together language educators, researchers, and organizations to share best practices, research, and innovations in world language education.

Why does LanguageBird attend the ACTFL Conference?

LanguageBird attends ACTFL to stay connected to the language education community, learn from educators and researchers, and ensure our online language programs align with current best practices in proficiency-based and culture-centered instruction.

How does ACTFL influence online language learning programs?

ACTFL provides research-based frameworks and professional insights that inform curriculum design, assessment, instructional strategies, and the thoughtful use of educational technology in online language learning environments.

What role does culture play in effective language learning?

Culture is essential to meaningful communication. Effective language learning integrates cultural context, identity, and authentic language use alongside vocabulary and grammar instruction.

How is AI used responsibly in online language education?

Responsible use of AI in language education focuses on supporting learners through guided practice, feedback, and self-directed learning rather than replacing human instructors or authentic interaction.