Training for High-Level Language Skills

Abstract

The majority of attention in foreign language teaching in the United States has in the past been focused on the lower levels of instruction. While many students begin the study of various languages each year, only very few continue to the level where they can truly function. This country's interests demand that we train more students to higher levels of proficiency in a greater variety of languages than ever before. To improve high-level language training, steps need to be taken to (1) coordinate and/or provide advanced-level, intensive language instruction in the United States and abroad; (2) train teachers in the techniques of high-level instruction; (3) catalog, adapt, prepare, and disseminate advanced training materials; (4) conduct research into the most effective training techniques at the higher levels; (5) promote language proficiency testing and certification; and (6) disseminate the knowledge and experience gained from the preceding.