“Facilitated Interdependent Language Learning,” or FILL, describes an approach that calls for one language teacher to facilitate the learning of multiple languages within the same classroom. The word “interdependent” rather than “independent” is used to define FILL because the example classes illustrate the collaborative process of a teacher (facilitator of FILL) and learner (the student registered for the language class) figuring out the what (which language) and how (which resources, use of class time, etc.) together. In that sense, the students in these school-based programs with FILL are not operating totally on their own. The facilitation of their learning by an experienced language teacher is critical in this approach.
Want to learn more (and see AI in action)? Check out this 18-minute overview podcast created by Google Notebook LM: FILL (Facilitated Interdependent Language Learning).
For more information, contact FILL4wls@gmail.com or visit https://www.ncssfl.org/resources/facilitated-interdependent-language-learning-fill/.
Publications with the Center for Applied Linguistics (CAL.org)
Resources and Presentations Related to FILL
- Facilitated Interdependent Language Learning (FILL): Equity for Languages and Learners (at PNCFL Conference in Seattle, WA 3/23/2024)
- From Language Teacher to Facilitator of Language Learning (at University of Washington Language Learning Center, Seattle, WA 7/24/2024) Link to Google Slides
Full Workshop: https://youtu.be/HpYa2pl3cik 17 minutes on FILL: https://youtu.be/fgCQ1UrPHKA - Personalized Language Learning Meets Proficiency-Based Credits in a Delaware Classroom (by Tom Welch 4/17/2025)
YouTube Videos Exploring FILL
A new series exploring FILL (Facilitated Interdependent Language Learning) intended for teachers, students, parents, and administrators.
Michele Anciaux Aoki’s Keynote on FILL at FLEAT8 (June 26, 2025)
Language Learning in the Age of AI
https://tinyurl.com/FLEAT8-AOKI-FILL (Google resource doc, plus link to slides)
FILL-Related Projects in Washington state
Olympia High School Languages without Borders Project
Olympia High School is working to increase fluency and interest in world languages by developing a resource room accessible to all students for language-learning purposes. The goal of having this present at the school would be to connect students with the tools necessary both for them to succeed on tests such as the Avant STAMP test and to further explore a language of their choosing. These tools will include connections to native speakers, online curriculum and supplemental practice, and a space to depend on when seeking additional support around learning a language.
FILL for Super Less Commonly Taught Languages at UW
The University of Washington Language Learning Center in partnership with the UW Department of Linguistics will be piloting a program beginning in fall quarter 2025 titled, Facilitated Interdependent Language Learning (FILL) for Super Less Commonly Taught Languages.
The Facilitated Interdependent Language Learning (FILL) course is a unique learning opportunity to study a language that is not currently offered at UW. Students will work with a facilitator and language expert to design a learning plan for the quarter. Students will meet together with a facilitator once a week and separately with a language expert once a week. Through interdependent study with other learners, students will explore and develop their language and cultural competencies.
Learn more: https://kalani.llc.washington.edu/fill-for-super-less-commonly-taught-languages-course-info/