Language Matters
A Conversation with Dr. Kathleen Stein-Smith, Distinguished Lecturer and Author
with Dr. Debbie Barnard
What is the state of foreign language training in the United States? We wanted to know so we asked TNWAC Advisory Board Member and Tennessee Tech University Associate Professor of French, Debbie Barnard to talk to Dr. Kathleen Stein-Smith, noted authority and advocate on the subject and author of, “Multi-lingualism as a Global Competency: Skills for a 21st Century World.”
The answer? About twenty percent of students in America are studying or learning a language according to Stein-Smith who says, “That’s very concerning,” adding, “That would mean a lot of Americans remain mono-lingual. Speaking only English. Understanding only English.
The number reflects a decline in foreign language education. Stein-Smith says the decline isn’t attributable to educators who she says are “dedicated and professional,” but rather to the lack of opportunity. “Foreign language programs have decreased in number significantly in our middle schools and most dramatically in our public schools,” she said, “The figures are really frightening.”
