Dr. Mary Risner, University of Florida, USA
Making Real-World Connections in the ESP/LSP Curriculum through Technology and Experiential Learning
Day 1: Improving Proficiency and Career Preparation through Virtual Exchange (VE)
Day 2: Building Ties between the Academic Community and Industry
BIO
Risner has worked in a variety of educational and business contexts throughout her career spanning 25 years. She is currently Associate Director of Outreach and Business programs at the University of Florida (UF) Center for Latin American Studies. At UF she develops and manages initiatives that infuse the study of world languages and area studies across the K-12 and higher education curriculum. Her interests are in the role of culture in international business and the integration of emerging technologies to develop intercultural competence and language skills for the workplace. Her most recent projects and research promote the value and implementation of virtual exchange as a tool to internationalize campuses and improve student learning outcomes through authentic learning experiences. She has presented and published on LSP and other topics over time and volunteers for several associations and boards promoting the study of language and culture.