Jan Swinton,
Associate Dean, Instruction & Workforce Development
1500 N Verdugo Rd Glendale, CA 91208
818-240-1000 x5158,
jswinton@glendale.edu
Description:
Glendale is a
highly diverse community with many residents for whom Spanish and
Armenian is their primary language. The goal of the practice is for
students/employers to achieve proficiency in occupational command
phrases so that they can communicate effectively to customers and
co-workers. The college works with local industries that serve
and/or employ Limited English Proficient (LEP) residents and have a
need to quickly and efficiently communicate basic needs. Employers
trained in Command Spanish or Command Armenian can assess a
customer’s needs or provide basic information while working in
conjunction with bi-lingual staff members. Occupations that can
benefit from training include police, fire, EMT, call centers,
hospitality industries, medical and dental, manufacturing and
construction.
ESL faculty members conduct the classes on campus or in various
shops. The classes are marketed through community partnerships and
events, through publications and networking.