In Support of Language and Language Education
Rebecca L. Chism, Ph.D., Associate Professor of Foreign Language Pedagogy, Kent State University
Empowerment. This is a word that is frequently used, but what does it really mean? The word “empower” implies the ability to promote the self-actualization or influence of an individual or group.
The Department of Modern and Classical Language Studies at Kent State University is doing just that. The department has fifty-two faculty members who are dedicated to helping students reach their full potential, academically and socially. The study of world languages is more important than ever in developing 21st-century global citizens, yet we are witnessing a distressing decline in enrollments in world language study.
It is well documented that the study of languages other than English provides cognitive benefits, increased vocabulary knowledge, and higher scores on standardized tests. Some studies even posit that learning a second language can stave off Alzheimer’s and other types of dementia in later years.
In addition to the cognitive benefits, knowing another language opens up more opportunities in the job market. These opportunities can range from careers that directly use a world language–such as translation, teaching, and interpreting —to those that can be augmented by knowing another language, including business, medicine, law, and the service professions. According to the American Council on the Teaching of Foreign Languages (ACTFL), there has been a 30% increase in bilingual remote jobs since 2020. And a 2019 survey of U.S. employers conducted by ACTFL revealed the following:
- 9 out of 10 employers rely on employees who can speak languages other than English.
- 56% reported that their demand for bi/multilingual speakers will increase in the next five years.
- 1 in 3 reported a language skills gap.
- 1 in 4 has lost business due to a lack of foreign language skills.
With the proliferation of artificial intelligence (AI), it is imperative that we remember the human element at the heart of languages and cultures. The study of a language can encourage social skills, empathy, and an appreciation of other cultures. Having even some limited exposure to another language and culture can help students broaden their horizons and embrace humanity. Learning a second language is a great way to encourage people to embrace diversity and discover the world outside of the United States.
We at Kent State are currently in the process of revamping our major options to ensure that students can pursue various interests, including the study of languages, translation, teaching, and cultures. An entry course to the major will introduce students to the various professions and pursuits associated with language study and will work toward real-life experiences through study abroad, internships, and project-based learning.
Kent State continues to offer a PK-12 multi-age, accredited licensure program for those who wish to teach Spanish or American Sign Language. In fact, American Sign Language is one of the fastest-growing majors in the United States at large. Of note, Kent State is the only university in Ohio to offer licensure for teaching American Sign Language as a world language.
Students who wish to teach in Ohio are immersed in methodology, classroom management, and best practices. In addition, they learn about the importance of advocacy for the promotion of languages through action. World language teachers empower their students by helping them to become better human beings through awareness, appreciation, and connection with others. It is vital that we retain not just our languages, but our world language education programs as well. It is up to us to continue to advocate for the creation of a global community.
The Cardinal 