Those who actually teach foreign languages and literature, "not those outside the field," should make decisions about language curricula, basing decisions and programs on sound pedagogy. Residual U.S. chauvinism and isolationism must not be allowed to trivialize and marginalize foreign languages and culture in the name of achieving a "competitive…

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)…

Describes projects using an Applied Foreign Language Component approach to incorporate foreign language study and enrichment in multidisciplinary studies, including practical guidelines for implementing such programs, forming faculty alliances, modifying courses, recruiting students, and expanding library holdings. (10 references) (Author/CB)

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.…

An adaptable, interdisciplinary project in high schools in Naples, Italy, involves teaching science in French to those who have completed at least three years of language study. Goals are to sensitize students to scientific French and to enrich their understanding through thematically focused work. (CNP)

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)

Describes a Japanese language program at a small liberal arts college in Minnesota that is making connections with the general studies program of the college. Four cultural studies courses are intended to demonstrate to students the symbiosis between language and culture and to provide a context for the students' study in Japan. (Author/VWL)

Focuses on the accreditation of English language programs and institutions that serve non-native speakers of English, highlighting the role of the Commission on English Language Program Accreditation (CEA). Examines why CEA accreditation is important, what it entails, and why program's seek it. (Author/VWL)

Discusses the role of foreign language studies in middle school reforms. Considers how foreign language instruction works with the middle school curriculum to integrate learning through an interdisciplinary approach that connects meaningful experiences in school to the students' community and understanding of life outside school. (JPB)

Discusses a technology-based project as a requirement for a traditional intermediate Japanese course at the University of Arkansas in which students worked in a small group to produce the university's promotional video in the target language, thus enhancing their Japanese language skills and promoting the program to the public. (Author/VWL)

Focuses on literacy as a way of creating and interpreting meaning through texts that are taught within the larger framework of communicative-based language learning. Notes that literacy involves critical reflection on the relations of text and context, and offers seven principles that apply literacy to teaching and span the gap between the…

Calls on foreign language departments to take a closer look at a long-standing component of their curriculum: culture. The discussion focuses on language and culture, teaching foreign cultures, and foreign cultures, transnationality, and globalization. (Author/VWL)

Discusses opinions toward foreign language (FL) departments on the college campus. Points out that while there is support for the learning of foreign languages, questions arise about whether knowing a language other than English is necessary, even in the climate of globalization and internationalization. Outlines steps for achieving excellence in…

This article focuses on the paucity of resources usually designated for rising numbers of students in Spanish courses as enrollments dwindle in other languages. Offers advice on how the strength of Spanish can be deployed to help other languages. (Author/VWL)

Suggests the need for incentives to help combat the resistance or indifference regarding implementation of the national standards for foreign language learning at the university level, especially in upper division courses at large research universities. (Author/VWL)