Date Approved

5-15-2007

Embargo Period

3-30-2016

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

M.A. in Higher Education Administration

Department

Educational Services and Leadership

College

College of Education

Advisor

Sisco, Burton R.

Subject(s)

Spanish language--Study and teaching (Higher); Universities and colleges--Employees--Training of

Disciplines

Higher Education Administration

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to research the process of planning and creating an employee Spanish training program. The researcher determined employees' previous knowledge of the language and culture as well as training preferences utilizing two surveys (n = 120) and a personal interview (n = 15). Surveys were statistically analyzed using SPSS software to determine frequencies, percentages, means and standard deviations and the interviews were analyzed using a content analysis procedure. Research on adult learning theories, program planning theories and exemplary Spanish training programs complemented the quantitative and qualitative data collected.

The study revealed that CCC employees had marginal knowledge of the language and culture but held positive attitudes toward the training and Hispanics in general. Employees also preferred multiple methods of instruction, including an interactive classroom approach coupled with computer-based reinforcement. Training preferences included weekly sessions of 1.5 hours with ample opportunity for transfer of learning. Suggestions for creating an effective Spanish training program based on employees' backgrounds and preferences, as well as adult learning theory and program planning theory are explained.

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