Presents the benefits and problems of an unusual exchange program involving graduate teaching assistants from Auburn University (Alabama) and prospective teachers from the Ecole Normale (Caen, France). Through journal entries, the students related their problems with living arrangements, differences in teaching methods, and their increased…

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)

Charts present information regarding college students' enrollment in modern foreign language classes and programs, based on a survey indicating that enrollment has increased and that the most commonly taught languages were Spanish, French, German, Italian, Russian, and Latin. (CB)

Suggests meaningful reward structures and programs to help foreign language junior faculty members develop as effective researchers, teachers, and members of a community of scholars, focusing on tenure criteria, collegiality, and congruence. (CB)

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)

A study of elementary school principals' (N=268) attitudes toward foreign language programs at the elementary level revealed that more than half believed that the elementary curriculum should include a foreign language program, but that implementing such a program was not high among their priorities. The questionnaire administered to the…

Describes a survey done to measure the extent to which courses in foreign languages for special purposes (FLSP) are part of the curriculum in higher education. Sixty-two percent of the responding colleges and universities offer FLSP courses. Survey results indicate growth potential of this relatively new field.

A successful advanced college-level French conversation course using French theater as a basis for students to learn oral skills has six phases: an overview of the history of French theater, reading, adaptation of the text, rehearsal-readings, final rehearsals, and performance. (MSE)

The development of core French programs is traced for each Canadian province and territory, and the extent of current offerings and program support is described, with special attention given to some programs. National program coordination to avoid duplication and effect improvements is advocated. (MSE)

Describes the undergraduate internship in conversation at New Mexico State University, a course which attempts to improve the oral communication of basic language classes. The course offers undergraduates opportunities to hold conversations with more advanced undergraduates in weekly meetings. In order to make the class nonthreatening, neither…

The use of animated films as instructional materials in second language instruction at the postsecondary level or earlier is encouraged, and the use of one specific film in intermediate-level French instruction is outlined. A list of recommended films is included.

Describes the Institute for Institutional Development in International Education created to act as agent for the Pennsylvania Council on International Education in the allocation of funds to postsecondary institutions for projects that promote both foreign languages and international study. Projects in two colleges and the state university are…

Presents the summary report of the 1985 study by the Virginia Council of Higher Education on the condition of language teaching in state-supported institutions of higher learning. The report includes 56 specific recommendations. The state council adopted the systemwide recommendations and suggested that institutions implement them within three…

Describes the experience of two high school French teachers who developed a curriculum for the nine French courses, according to school and departmental goals. The curriculum was developed according to the ACTFL/ETS proficiency guidelines. Examples are given of the format for Level One units. (SED)