Designated as a National Foreign Language Resource Center in 2001 and a Chinese Flagship Program in 2005, the Center for Applied Second Language Studies (CASLS) is a research center at the University of Oregon dedicated to improving the teaching and learning of world languages. The center integrates research and technology to develop reliable, affordable assessments, effective, long-term professional development opportunities, and articulated, standards-based language programs.

CASLS believes that:

• All children have the ability to learn another language and should be provided that opportunity.
• Meaningful communication is the purpose of language learning.
• Teachers are the solution, not the problem.