Discusses findings of the President's Commission of Foreign Language and International Studies which show that less than 16 percent of secondary school students and less than 9 percent of college students elect foreign language courses. Only 3 percent of college students take a course about a foreign culture. Also discusses new legislation which…

These hearings concerned a proposed Foreign Language Assistance Act and a Congressional Resolution designed to promote the study of foreign languages and international affairs at all levels of education in the United States. Testimony was given by concerned members of Congress, keynoted by former Senator J. William Fulbright, as well as by…

In the first half of this century, language learning was considered essential in an individual's education, and language study was seen as improving native language comprehension and use, promoting higher levels skill development, and developing discipline. At the time, the training offered, generally in passive language skills, was appropriate…

During the past 10 years, an abundance of evidence has been published about the need in the United States for knowledge of other nations and peoples and about the low levels of American international understanding. This evidence supports placing greater emphasis on international studies and foreign languages in the elementary and secondary grades.…

In order to build United States competence in world affairs a strengthening of foreign language and international studies programs is required. Few would argue that the United States should not possess an educational system which produces at least a minimal cadre of experts about other peoples and cultures. Our national security requires…

Stresses need for support of international studies and foreign language programs throughout the U.S. educational system. Reports status of foreign language instruction on National Association of Independent Schools campuses. Discusses primary goals of secondary level foreign language teaching. (JD)

A description is provided of foreign language and related cultural education (English, French, and German) in Denmark since the 1950s. The first section gives an overview of the development of Danish society in general since the second world war, and more specifically, of developments in foreign language teaching. The second section briefly…

One of 10 studies commissioned to investigate research needs and to stimulate planning activities, this paper claims that we know little about the language needs of all Americans, and argues that our real concern should be one of direction, not one of money. Although the need to communicate with the rest of the world has emerged as the most…

Reports findings and progress of efforts to educate American students in international languages and cultural studies. Recommends: (1) special programs for teachers; (2) state and federal funding and support for international studies and programs; (3) use of special schools for national models; and (4) required courses in international education…

This volume deals with issues in foreign language education that have come to the fore since the publication of the Report of the President's Commission on Foreign Language and International Studies. It contains the following articles: "Action or Inaction: An Editorial Opinion," by June Phillips; (2) "ACTFL's 1980 Agenda: Intention…

The Learning and Teaching about Japan Project was begun in Indiana in 1987. Since that time, it has involved 16 school corporations in an ongoing program to internationalize the K-12 curriculum and implement Japanese language programs in the schools. This guide has been developed as a record of the activities conducted by the 16 participating…

A survey assessing the status of foreign language and international studies instruction in Colorado in elementary, secondary, and higher education, and the needs of the international business community for individuals trained in these areas, is presented. Teachers and administrators at each of the three levels were surveyed. Response rates were…

This paper outlines the New York State School Boards Association's position on the New York Board of Regents' policy concerning international studies and second language instruction in New York public schools. It contains a summary of association policy recommendations concerning internationalism and languages in the curriculum, staffing,…

The task for those recognizing the importance of foreign language and international studies is to demonstrate to Americans why it makes economic and political sense to invest part of the defense budget in the tools necessary to help Americans talk to, understand, and trade with the rest of the world. (MSE)

Excerpts from the first "Bulletin" of the President's Commission on Foreign Language and International Studies and an outline of the coordinator's presentation to the Chicago hearing are presented. The objectives of the commission include recommending means for directing public attention to the importance of foreign language and…