![Taylor Zenko](https://stars.library.ucf.edu/ramp_gallery/1112/thumbnail.jpg)
Student
Taylor Zenko
Files
Cohort
2018-2019
Faculty Mentor
Dr. Alla Kourova
Undergraduate Major
International and Global Studies
Future Plans
Pursue a career in the foreign service as a political officer.
Keywords
Foreign language, Education, International and Global studies
Recommended Citation
Zenko, Taylor, "Taylor Zenko" (2019). UCF Research and Mentoring Program Scholars. 109.
https://stars.library.ucf.edu/ramp_gallery/109
![Taylor Zenko](https://stars.library.ucf.edu/ramp_gallery/1112/thumbnail.jpg)
Research
Abstract: As technology advances, innovative tools can enhance the study of critical foreign languages. Critical languages, such as Russian, are in demand languages pertinent to the national security interests of the United States. This research project, based on the Russian language, analyzes the methodological efficacy of traditional versus nontraditional critical language class settings when overcoming the challenges of second language acquisition. Nontraditional classrooms promote blended learning, in which students continually engage with the course material through different mediums. Learning objectives for the Russian language curriculum include improving global awareness and intercultural competency. Online resources, such as interactive games and meaningful dialogues, can help achieve the objectives.