For international students, families, universities, and partner institutions, teaching quality, methodology, and academic standards play a crucial role in the learning experience.This is why professional associations such as ASILS are a key reference point in the field of Italian as a second and foreign language.
What Is ASILS?
ASILS (Associazione delle Scuole di Italiano come Lingua Seconda) is an Italian association dedicated to the promotion and development of high-quality Italian language education for non-native speakers.
ASILS brings together Italian language schools, universities, teacher trainers, and professionals specialized in Italian L2/LS education, with the aim of strengthening research, methodological reflection, and professional ethics in the sector.
The association plays an active role in:
- promoting teacher training and professional development
- supporting research in Italian L2/LS teaching
- encouraging innovation in language teaching methodologies
- fostering dialogue between schools and academic institutions
ASILS is the Italian association dedicated to research, teacher training, and quality standards in the teaching of Italian as a second and foreign language.
More information is available on the official ASILS website: ASILS – Associazione delle Scuole di Italiano come Lingua Seconda
Why ASILS Matters for Students Learning Italian
Although ASILS is primarily a professional and academic association, its work has a direct impact on students learning Italian.
By promoting qualified teachers, continuous training, and shared teaching standards, ASILS contributes to a learning environment that is:
- methodologically sound
- student-centred
- aligned with international frameworks such as the CEFR
- focused on real communicative competence
For students, this means clearer learning objectives, more effective progress, and a teaching approach that respects individual learning paths.
Teaching Italian as a Second Language: Standards and Methodology
Modern Italian language education goes far beyond grammar rules and vocabulary lists. Within the professional framework promoted by ASILS, teaching Italian as a second or foreign language is generally based on:
- communicative and action-oriented approaches
- humanistic-affective principles
- task-based learning
- continuous assessment and feedback
These methodologies aim to develop not only linguistic accuracy, but also fluency, cultural awareness, motivation, and learner autonomy.
Il Centro and ASILS: A Founding Role in Quality Italian Language Education
Il Centro – Scuola di Lingua e Cultura Italiana has played an active role in the development of professional standards in the field of Italian as a second and foreign language.
The school is a founding member of ASILS, contributing from the very beginning to the creation of a shared professional framework for Italian language education in Italy.
Being involved in ASILS since its foundation means:
- actively participating in discussions on teaching quality
- supporting the professional development of Italian L2 teachers
- contributing to methodological reflection and innovation
- promoting ethical and transparent educational practices
This long-term involvement reflects Il Centro’s commitment to quality-driven education, where teaching is understood as a professional, research-informed, and learner-centred activity.
A Shared Vision of Teaching Quality
The educational philosophy adopted at Il Centro aligns closely with the principles promoted within the ASILS community, including:
- communicative and action-oriented methodologies
- a humanistic-affective approach to learning
- continuous teacher training and reflection
- respect for individual learning paths and cultural diversity
A key element of this shared vision is continuous teacher training. You can explore this aspect in more detail in our article on ASILS and teacher training in Italian language education
How to Choose a High-Quality Italian Language School in Italy
When choosing an Italian language school, students should look beyond price and location.
Important quality indicators include:
- teacher qualifications and ongoing training
- clear and transparent course structures
- defined learning objectives and assessment criteria
- student support services
- alignment with recognised educational standards
Associations such as ASILS help define the professional culture behind these standards and provide a valuable reference point for students seeking a serious and reliable Italian language learning experience.
Why Quality and Professional Standards Matter
Italian language education is a complex and professional field that requires expertise, training, and constant development.
Understanding the role of organisations such as ASILS allows students, institutions, and partners to make more informed choices and to recognise the value of our Italian schools that invest in quality, methodology, and professional integrity.