The University of Connecticut American English Institute (UCAELI) has provided intensive English instruction since 1990 to more than 5000 students from around the world. Midway between Boston and New York, UCONN is the leading public university in New England. The supportive UCAELI staff and faculty have considerable expertise in guiding students academically and culturally to make the most of their learning experience in the U.S. Cornerstones of our Institute are Quality, Community, Innovation and Results. Quality – Above and Beyond the Others • UCAELI’s Intensive English Program has been accredited by the Commission on English Language Programs (CEA) and the American Association of Intensive English Programs (AAIEP) since 2002. • UCAELI instructors hold advanced degrees in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL), Applied Linguistics, Law, Business and other professional fields. Community – UCAELI Students are United through English • Students have an excellent support system of teachers and staff • Our goal is to connect our students with others, especially with the University and local community • Classroom community is fostered by a focus on intercultural learning • Many out of class activities and trips help students help us know each other better Innovation – Leading the Way in Active Learning • Our courses are designed to bring the real world into the classroom and our students into the real world • Classroom activities emphasize hands-on, collaborative learning • Technologies are integrated in classroom teaching and student work to support language learning and build 21st century skills Results – UCAELI Students Succeed with English • Our goal is to help students transition to academic study and advance in their professional careers • Legal English, Business English and English for Math and Science courses help students develop language skills needed in specialized areas of study and work • UCAELI’s former students are our primary source for new students – they highly recommend our program to family and friends In each of UCAELI’s programs, curriculum is based on the understanding that language learning is an ongoing, dynamic, experiential process in which contexts are defining. Classes are student-centered, engaging students in personally meaningful activities and projects including partner and small group work, role-play, discussions, debates, student presentations, and poster sessions. Authentic texts from literature, academic sources, and the media generate topics for written and oral response. Class projects may include creation of a video, website, newsletter, journal, or dramatic performance. Students are brought face-to-face with the latest in educational technology through use of the UCAELI mobile computer lab, Smartboards, and a variety of online resources. Additional out-of-class activities may include interviews with native speakers, field trips, visits to local museums and galleries, participation in conversation partner program, auditing of UCONN classes, and community service work. Student involvement in the UCONN community is encouraged and supported by the UCAELI staff and instructors and is an important part of the Institute’s mission.