Allen R. Woodall III
The University of Memphis
Department of World Languages and Literatures
Allen R. Woodall III is an Assistant Professor of Teaching of Spanish at The University of Memphis. His current work focuses on Spanish Second Language Acquisition (SLA), curricular and instructional design, and the integration of emerging technologies such as ChatGPT and other AI tools in language education. Rooted in a commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion, his teaching philosophy prioritizes student-centered, task-based learning that fosters cultural empathy and professional application of language skills.
In addition to teaching across all levels of the Spanish Basic Language Program, Allen designs and delivers upper-division courses in Conversation, Composition, and Applied Linguistics for Spanish majors and minors. These courses bridge theory and practice, empowering students to explore Spanish linguistics through interdisciplinary applications such as Sociolinguistics, Language Teaching, and Political Science. By incorporating authentic and diverse materials, his Outcome-Driven Model for Teaching and Learning equips students with the skills to communicate effectively, engage critically with cultural perspectives, and apply their knowledge in both academic and real-world contexts.
Allen’s research interests include computational approaches to SLA, AI literacy in education, and task-based learning for professional purposes. His work underscores the transformative potential of innovative pedagogy to create inclusive learning environments and inspire lifelong learning.