James McConnell II

James McConnell II serves as Senior Lecturer and Spanish Section Coordinator for 100-200 level courses in the Department of World Languages and Cultures at North Carolina State University. He has held this position since 2013, previously serving as a lecturer from 2005-2013. His roles include graduate teaching supervision and directing study abroad programs in Spain. McConnell holds an M.A. in Hispanic Literature from the University of Arizona (1997) and has extensive experience in experiential education through adventure travel and language teaching.

Education:

• M.A. in Hispanic Literature, University of Arizona, 1997
• Undergraduate studies at University of Arizona

Research focuses on communicative language instruction through films and real-world applications. He emphasizes cultural competency and community engagement, co-founding the VOLAR program (2012), which connects students with Spanish-speaking communities. His work has been recognized via DELTA Faculty Fellowships (2018-2020) and a seed grant for VOLAR.

Key contributions include:

• Development of online language courses and summer study abroad programs
• Leadership in academic continuity during the pandemic
• Workshops on technology integration and active learning

Labs/Teams: Oversees the Spanish Section Coordinator role and manages the Sevilla study abroad program, continuing the legacy of his Segovia program (2007-2019).