In‐country language programs: surveying the field (1996 ASAA conference)

Abstract

Summary The workshop highlighted the vital importance of in‐country language study, not just in aiding language acquisition but in providing students with the social and cultural context for their studies. In spite of the Australian government's policy of promoting greater knowledge of Asian languages and cultures (albeit officially for mostly economic motives), we are still a long way behind many countries in recognising that in‐country experience is an integral component of language learning: something that has long been acknowledged (and indeed has been compulsory) in Britain and other European countries. While the survey revealed the wide range and continuing expansion of incountry programs, the relatively small number of students having an in‐country language opportunity was of concern to participants in the workshop. They generally agreed that this was not because of a lack of interest or enthusiasm on the part of students. Rather the inhibiting factor was the cost involved, both for university departments and for the students themselves. As this report indicates, a few Australian universities have already recognised that in‐country language study is vitally important not just in improving language acquisition and cultural knowledge, but as an integral component of their internationalisation policies and the growing globalisation of education. Obviously the issue of in‐country study for language students is only one aspect of this. But it is a particularly vital aspect because, in addition to the usual advantages to be gained from a study abroad program, a period of in‐country study is essential to producing Australian graduates with the language and cultural expertise necessary for Australia's future role in the Asian region.