LITI - German Language in Italy: where we are and where we want to go

Programma di finanziamento: PRIN 2022

Ente finanziatore: MUR

Responsabile scientifico: Antonella Nardi

Ruolo UniMC: partner

Durata: 24 mesi

The project consists of three actions balanced with each other and combines objectives of theoretical research on the acquisition process with concrete operational applications for the practice of teaching/learning German. Starting from an objective survey through the collection of data on the number of learners and teachers of German language in Italy, on the average skills generally obtained and on the demands of language skills in German for the labor market, the project then branches out into two tracks of qualitative research that question, respectively, i. the factors that create difficulties in achieving the minimum level of language survival (Level B1 according to the CEFR) and ii. the overcoming oft his level to ensure high skills, beyond B1 (B2, C1, C2). While quantitative research is based on the collection of data transmitted by the specific institutions, which have here the function of informants, qualitative research is oriented towards two objectives of theoretical research, which however have a strong applicative value. In these two qualitative actions, the researchers ask themselves the following research questions, each corresponding to a phase: does the didactics of German oriented towards the attainment of B1 take into account, in the teaching manuals used, the phases of acquisition hypothesized by the acquisitional research, in particular of the German language? What are the difficulties of the transition from average competence (B1) to high competence, of excellence? While the answer to the first question will serve to improve the offer of teaching manuals, making the more consistent with the results of research and therefore making B1 more accessible and secure for learners of German, the answer to the second question will allow us to focus on the elements that can improve the development of skills of excellence, necessary for personnel employed in professional fields of good level. The expected products of the project are, in addition to the research answers to the questions posed, two: the creation of a database of Italian German in high schools and universities(resulting from the first action); a platform on which to upload materials, teaching paths and proposals for the transition from B1 to B2-C1 in different areas of professional German (economic, academic, commercial, medical, tourist and scientific).