Avenue Teammate Spotlight: John Allan
John Allan, Lead Learning Technologist and Senior Mentor with the Avenue Project, supports instructors nationwide while mentoring educators through training stages and leadership courses. Drawing on decades in technology-enhanced language learning, he connects frontline support with innovation, helping teachers adapt tools, build confidence, and lead local change across Canadian classrooms.
Innovating Adult ESL at TVDSB: A Conversation with Jennifer Jones and Jen Artan
At TVDSB, adult ESL innovation is practical, intentional, and learner-centered. In conversation with Jennifer Jones and Jen Artan, this interview explores how flexible programming, thoughtful use of Avenue, and sustained instructor support have transformed adult ESL and LINC delivery. From blended learning models to building digital confidence and autonomy, the discussion offers concrete insights into how technology, pedagogy, and leadership come together to support newcomer success.
Avenue Teammate Spotlight: Dr. Sepideh Alavi
Dr. Sepideh Alavi shares her journey from teaching and CALL research in Iran to her leadership role at New Language Solutions. She reflects on building technology‑enhanced learning environments, navigating political and technological challenges, and applying those experiences to Avenue and CanAvenue. Sepideh highlights the promise and risks of AI, the importance of accessibility, and how thoughtful, learner‑centred innovation can expand opportunities for newcomers.
Leading from the Ground Up: Ann Chen on Community, Innovation, and Digital Access
Ann Chen, LINC‑ESL Team Lead at KEYS, describes how the organization’s integrated model supports newcomers through connected employment, settlement, and language services. Her early work with Chinese restaurant workers shaped her commitment to practical, portable, tech‑supported language learning. At KEYS, the adoption of Avenue strengthened instructional consistency and collaboration across classes. Leadership training helped Chen articulate bottom‑up innovation, now reflected in KEYS’ Community of Practice and initiatives like coordinated tablet integration to enhance digital access for learners.
Supporting Digital Navigation & Flexible LINC Delivery in Rural BC: A Conversation with CBAL
Avenue Digital News speaks with Kerry Campbell-Clark, an experienced ESL practitioner teaching both literacy-designated learners and CLB 1–3 students with the Columbia Basin Alliance for Literacy (CBAL). Kerry is joined by Shayna Jepsen, CBAL’s Language Program Coordinator, and Rob McBride, Executive Director of New Language Solutions. Together, they explore what it means to support newcomers across vast rural regions of British Columbia where learners face diverse linguistic, educational, and socio-emotional challenges.
Using Avenue with Literacy and Low-Level Learners: A Conversation with Kerry Campbell-Clark and Shayna Jepsen
Avenue Digital News speaks with Kerry Campbell-Clark, an experienced ESL practitioner teaching both literacy-designated learners and CLB 1–3 students with the Columbia Basin Alliance for Literacy (CBAL). Kerry is joined by Shayna Jepsen, CBAL’s Language Program Coordinator, and Rob McBride, Executive Director of New Language Solutions. Together, they explore what it means to support newcomers across vast rural regions of British Columbia where learners face diverse linguistic, educational, and socio-emotional challenges.
Moodle 4.5 Migration Complete: Explore The Refreshed & Augmented Avenue LMS
The Avenue platform was migrated to Moodle 4.5 in mid-November. Teachers and learners now enjoy a refreshed interface, enhanced navigation, streamlined grading and activity management, improved course editing tools, and greater accessibility for all.
Normes pour les apprenants d’Avenue – L’apprentissage des langues optimisé par la technologie (ALOTech)
Les Normes de l’instructeur d’Avenue pour l’apprentissage des langues optimisé par la technologie (ALOTech) offrent un cadre clair et accessible pour aider les instructeurs à intégrer efficacement la technologie dans leurs cours, en ligne, en présentiel ou en format hybride. Ancrées dans les pratiques exemplaires, elles visent à renforcer la confiance professionnelle, à accompagner l’évolution des pratiques, y compris face à l’IA, et à offrir aux apprenants des expériences d’apprentissage de grande qualité. Elles s’adressent également aux administrateurs, aux formateurs d’instructeurs et à toute personne chargée de soutenir l’enseignement des langues dans des environnements technologiques.
Les Normes de l’instructeur d’Avenue pour l’apprentissage des langues optimisé par la technologie (ALOTech)
Les Normes de l’instructeur d’Avenue pour l’apprentissage des langues optimisé par la technologie (ALOTech) offrent un cadre clair et accessible pour aider les instructeurs à intégrer efficacement la technologie dans leurs cours, en ligne, en présentiel ou en format hybride. Ancrées dans les pratiques exemplaires, elles visent à renforcer la confiance professionnelle, à accompagner l’évolution des pratiques, y compris face à l’IA, et à offrir aux apprenants des expériences d’apprentissage de grande qualité. Elles s’adressent également aux administrateurs, aux formateurs d’instructeurs et à toute personne chargée de soutenir l’enseignement des langues dans des environnements technologiques.
Normes du Programme d’Avenue pour l’Apprentissage des Langues Optimisé par la Technologie
Les normes du programme d’Avenue pour l’apprentissage des langues optimisé par la technologie (ALOTech) sont conçues pour guider les personnes occupant des postes décisionnels au sein d’un programme de langues. Elles s’adressent aux administrateurs, englobant à la fois les décideurs de premier niveau et ceux de niveau supérieur, comme les bailleurs de fonds, les directeurs, les doyens et les conseils scolaires. Ces normes permettent aux administrateurs d’évaluer dans quelle mesure leur programme est conforme aux standards établis. Elles peuvent également servir de base pour justifier des demandes de financement nécessaires à l’atteinte de ces normes.
Avenue Moodle Upgrade 2025
In Mid-November Avenue will migrate from Moodle Version 3.10 to Moodle Version 4.5 and
Avenue will be unavailable to our learners and teachers.
Moodle 4.5 is the latest long-term supported (LTS) release of the world’s leading open-source
learning management system.
It brings a modern, intuitive interface, streamlined navigation, and enhanced tools for teachers,
learners, and administrators.
The upgrade ensures Avenue remains secure, accessible, and aligned with current technology
standards.
Avenue will be unavailable during the upgrade window (Friday evening through Sunday).
Please plan ahead and avoid scheduling classes or assessments during this period.
Best Practices Guide for Synchronous/Blended Learning
In 2023-24 two NLS research consultants collaborated with ISANS on the SDI research project Best Practices in Synchronous Online Teaching. During this research project, a Best Practices Guide was developed to help EAL instructors enhance their instructional practices in synchronous and blended learning in the context of a LINC/ PBLA program. The Best Practice Guide is a practical tool, based on findings from the research, exploring existing technologies and other program adaptations to make synchronous and blended language training delivery more effective and consistent across the sector.