Language And National Security In The 21st Century The Role Of

Download or read book Language and National Security in the 21st Century written by Richard D. Brecht and published by . This book was released on 2000 with total page 227 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: This study evaluates the language-related programs mandated in the Fulbright-Hays Act of 1961, a federal policy designed to promote national security through the promotion of advanced language training and access of the U.S. government to such expertise. This study has two principal components: a retrospective assessment of the effectiveness of Title VI/Fulbright-Hays (Title VI/F-H) in meeting its statutory goals with regard to foreign language; and a look to the future with recommendations based on current law, past performance, and an empirically-based assessment of current needs for language in the United States. It is concluded that the United States, through Title VI/F-H has sustained the nation's capacity in less commonly taught languages (LCTLs), many of which have or have had strategic importance. Title VI/F-H has also played a key role in supporting basic research in linguistics and second language acquisition, been crucial to the training of foreign language experts, and meeting the needs of business and government for such services. It is also concluded that Title VI/F-H faces unprecedented new challenges in the years ahead as a result of the political, social, economic, and technological developments of the past 15. Eleven specific recommendations are made for the strengthening of the language component of Title VI/F-H, focusing on encouraging the study of foreign languages, funding more basic research, and involving resident native speakers of strategically important languages in these efforts. The book is divided into 5 chapters and includes references, several appendices, and an index. (KFT)