Keli Yerian

Professor Keli Yerian is a truly dedicated educator with a passion for shaping the future of language teaching. As a Senior Lecturer II at the University of Oregon, she brings a wealth of experience, spanning over 25 years in the dynamic world of language instruction and education. In her significant roles as the Director of both the Language Teaching Studies MA Program and the Second Language Acquisition and Teaching undergraduate certificate program, she channels her deep commitment to elevating the field of linguistics through thoughtful curriculum design and innovative program development. Her work is clearly driven by a desire to make a lasting impact on how languages are taught and learned.

Her academic curiosity extends into fascinating areas of research, including the nuances of interactional discourse analysis, the insightful study of gesture, and the practical complexities of language pedagogy. Through her investigations in these diverse fields, she has offered valuable contributions to our understanding of the intricate processes involved in language acquisition, whether within the structured environment of a classroom or in broader contexts. Her particular focus on gesture studies adds a unique dimension, illuminating the often-overlooked non-verbal cues that play a crucial role in effective communication and language learning.

Before bringing her expertise to the University of Oregon, Professor Yerian honed her considerable skills and expanded her knowledge during her time at Stanford University. There, she was actively involved in a variety of teaching and research initiatives that further shaped her approach. Her extensive international experience, gained through teaching English as a Second Language (ESL) and English as a Foreign Language (EFL) in various settings, has profoundly enriched her perspective. This global viewpoint is something she seamlessly integrates into her work, offering students and colleagues a broader understanding of language education in a diverse world.

Throughout her distinguished career, Professor Yerian has consistently demonstrated a heartfelt dedication to cultivating environments where both students and fellow educators can flourish and grow. Her leadership in guiding the Language Teaching Studies MA Program and the undergraduate certificate program is a testament to this commitment. She is deeply invested in equipping the next generation of language educators with the essential skills, practical knowledge, and insightful perspectives they will need to confidently navigate and succeed in the ever-evolving landscape of educational contexts around the globe.

Beyond her significant teaching and administrative responsibilities, Professor Yerian remains actively engaged in academic research and contributes thoughtfully to scholarly publications. Her ongoing work plays a vital role in the broader conversation surrounding language education and the continuous evolution of its methodologies. Her insights and contributions continue to serve as a source of inspiration and influence for many educators and researchers alike, solidifying her position as a highly respected and influential figure within the field of linguistics.