Workshop Title:
“Curriculum Design Through Backwards Planning”
Workshop Description:
This session explores how backward planning, grounded in scaffolding, can be used to strengthen curriculum development in Interpreter Training Programs (ITPs). Drawing on Vygotsky’s Zone of Proximal Development (ZPD), presenters examine how intentional scaffolding supports students’ progression from foundational knowledge to professional competency.
In response to inconsistencies across courses and unclear expectations for student learning, this work demonstrates how backward planning can establish clearer benchmarks while preserving instructor flexibility. Presenters will share a practical example of redesigning an interpreter education curriculum by aligning program outcomes, coursework, instructional strategies, and assessments.
Attendees will gain insight into key decisions, challenges, and effective strategies from this process. The session also highlights how scaffolding can be embedded across courses to support cumulative learning, meet diverse learner needs, and align with industry expectations. Additionally, the integration of design thinking and universal design principles will be discussed as a way to promote accessibility and innovation. Participants will leave with practical, actionable strategies to enhance curriculum coherence and support intentional, learner-centered program development in interpreter education.
Educational Objectives:
Participants will demonstrate mastery of backwards planning concepts through pre and post-tests of the following course learning outcomes:
1) Define key concepts of backward planning, scaffolding, and Vygotsky’s Zone of Proximal Development (ZPD).
2) Identify how these frameworks support student progression in interpreter education.
3) Identify and sequence the core components of backward curriculum design within an Interpreter Training Program..
Bio:
Dr. Leslie Puzio is an Associate Professor at Frederick Community College in the ASL Interpreter Program. Dr. Puzio has over 21 years of professional interpreting experience and over 12 years of mentoring and teaching experience. She currently serves on the State Board of Sign Language Interpreter Licensure. Her current research and area of focus are looking at advancing standardization among Interpreter Training Programs. She resides in Maryland with her family.
RID CEUs Offered: .15