ITAIS Newsletter - September 2021 (Plain Text Version)

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In this issue:
LEADERSHIP UPDATES
•  LETTER FROM THE CHAIR
•  LETTER FROM CHAIR ELECT
•  LETTER FROM THE EDITORS
ARTICLES
•  THE RISKS OF A TEST-FOCUSED ITA TRAINING COURSE
•  SOME TIPS FOR STREAMINLINING THE PREPARATION AND PROCTORING OF SPEAKING EXAMS
•  DISCUSSION OF CRITICAL INCIDENTS IN TEACHING: EXPERIENCED ITAS SHARE PERSPECTIVES IN A WORKSHOP ON ZOOM
ABOUT THIS COMMUNITY
•  COMMUNITY EVENTS UPDATES
•  HISTORY OF ITA INTEREST SECTION
•  CALL FOR SUBMISSIONS FOR ITAIS NEWSLETTER
•  TESOL ITA-IS NEW MEMBERS

 

LETTER FROM CHAIR ELECT

Dear colleagues,

Whether you had a long break or were busier than ever this summer, I hope everyone is ready for the new semester. As Stacy mentioned in her letter, we from the ITA-IS steering committee surely had our hands full!

After almost a year and a half, I was back in the office and couldn’t believe how great it felt to have to deal with a copier paper jam! I’m sure I’m not the only one who’s excited, but also a bit anxious to get back to work at least partially in person. With so many uncertainties still ahead this year, it’s comforting to know we have such a strong community to count on. I encourage everyone, new members and seasoned veterans alike, to share their experiences, be it in the March 2022 Convention, a newsletter article, a discussion following a webinar, a post to our mailing list, or one of the virtual meetings some of our colleagues have been organizing. If you’re new to the party, welcome and please reach out if you’d like to be a more active participant.

Most (all?) of us working with ITAs are used to dealing with change and uncertainty. From sudden leadership changes to not knowing where your program will be housed next year to dealing with changing legislation and requirements, we’re experts at adapting and flourishing in ever-changing environments. I’m very grateful to be part of this amazing group who has supported me through these trying times. And with this heavy scaffolding around me, I can’t wait to see what this year has in stock!

Warm wishes,

Cynthia DeRoma