Adapting counseling to changing learner demographics via a school-wide system of support

The School of Language Studies at the Foreign Service Institute (FSI) offers full-time, intensive language training in more than 70 languages to US diplomats and other government employees preparing to serve at US Embassies abroad. Students at FSI, the primary training institution of the US foreign affairs community, have access to a fully independent, school-wide, language-learning counseling program, the Learning Consultation Service (LCS). LCS principles and protocol have remained intact from its inception, but changes in student demographics have demanded new approaches and practices. Specifically, multiple meetings with Learning Counselors and Learning Consultants, coaching, and more student accountability have gained priority. During the 2004/2005 training year, the LCS conducted a Learning Strategies Pilot Project with a limited number of student volunteers; feedback and observations appeared to justify the evolution of LCS protocol and counseling approaches.