Carolin Jolitz

Carolin (Caro) Jolitz holds a B.A. and M.A. in Educational Science and German Linguistics from the University of Kiel, Germany, and recently completed her dual-title Ph.D. in German Applied Linguistics and Language Science at Penn State University. Her research focuses on instructed second language acquisition and educational technology, particularly on how digital tools can enhance language learning both in and beyond the classroom.

Supported by a Duolingo Dissertation Grant, her doctoral work investigated the effects of audiovisual input, specifically captioned and non-captioned videos, on beginner German learners’ pronunciation and perception skills. She also explores how first-language orthography impacts learners’ ability to produce and perceive L2 sounds, with a focus on designing instructional strategies to mitigate these challenges in L2 phonological development.

In addition to teaching German at all proficiency levels at Penn State, she co-developed and co-led a sustainability-focused study abroad program in Switzerland. Her teaching experience also includes a 3-month internship at the Goethe-Institut in Bangkok, Thailand, where she designed and taught German conversation courses.

To learn more or to contact her, visit www.carolinjolitz.weebly.com.