Discusses the importance of fairness in evaluation studies of second-language programs and the potential for misinterpretation of studies which are not program-fair. Strategies designed to overcome this problem from the perspective of standardized tests include: specific tests for each program, program-specific plus program-neutral measures,…

A historical review of the establishment of the Association of Departments of Foreign Languages and its bulletin highlights both the changes that have occurred and are continuing to occur in the foreign language profession and the association's focus on covering the multifaceted perspectives and needs of the profession. (CB)

Argues that the research on language immersion and subject-matter teaching indicates that the immersion approach is a feasible and desirable alternative to traditional skills-based instruction for college-level foreign-language programs. (Author/CB)

An exploration of the reasons for the failure of former elementary school foreign language programs precedes the identification of issues that should be addressed to ensure the effectiveness of current and future programs. The three basic FLES program models, Foreign Language Experience (FLEX), sequential FLES, and immersion, are described. (CB)

Explores the role of foreign language programs in higher education and attempts to define, encourage, and incorporate elements of multiculturalism in the entire college curriculum, emphasizing the unique position and inherent cultural diversity of foreign language departments. (23 references) (CB)

Explores issues relating to the formulation of policy for summer programs for language learning, describing one university's experience with student demand, student motivation and progress, course timing and structure, academic staffing, administrative organization, student and staff evaluation, and funding. (three references) (CB)

Argues for the viability of international education as the primary guiding principle for foreign language education, pointing out how foreign language programs can teach about language, history, values, and beliefs of other national groups and foster more effective interactions in political, cultural, economic, and global realms. (15 references)…

Attempts to describe the world market for education in English as a first, second, or foreign language. The total market value for education programs or materials is estimated in the billions of dollars. Particular focus is placed on the English language education markets of the Far East/Australia, North American, Europe and the United Kingdom.…

Explores the relationship between foreign language and international studies, focusing on the resulting closer connection between language, content, and context in foreign language departments and courses; cross-cultural components, traditional foreign language instruction, and courses emphasizing cultural awareness. (CB)

In Canada, education in French as a second language (FSL) offers students the opportunity to learn a second official language. Is such an opportunity appropriate for allophone students who are still in the process of learning English? This literature review provides a fourfold consideration of the issue. Section 1 examines the political response…

There is now a need, just like in industry, for quality assurance in education, for injecting systematically planned and formal processes, precise definitions, objectivity, and measurability in education. The demand for educational excellence in industry is "out there," and companies in more advanced countries are partnering educational…

A selective chronology outlines events affecting foreign language education in the United States and the Association of Departments of Foreign Languages between 1952 and 1988. Three historical trends involving professional unity across language lines, greater professionalization and accountability, and greater public visibility are discussed. (CB)

A review of the literature concerning second language program evaluation looks at definitions of program evaluation, approaches taken to it, and the purposes that evaluation has fulfilled. Use of program evaluation to educate those working in or with second-language programs is recommended. (MSE)

Distinguishes between second language learning and second language acquisition by considering the effectiveness of school foreign language programs. It is pointed out that the level of communicative competence or fluency achieved in such programs by foreign students is not that of native speakers. (CB)

Proposed and existing models of research and professional development through which language faculty can participate in the reward structure are surveyed and evaluated for their applicability to the small multilingual, primarily baccalaureate department. All existing models are found to be burdened by political drawbacks, and a new model is…