FC foreign language just doesn’t measure up
Even in quiet Franklin, Ind., we can’t ignore globalization. With some of the lowest foreign language requirements and only two languages offered, it appears Franklin College is trying to do just that, though. The blame doesn’t rest on just the students or the administration--it falls squarely between both. Students are going to have to take the initiative and realize that in today’s world, they’re going to need the extra foot up that having another language on their resume would bring. It’s especially useful in health occupations, business and education, all programs we pride ourselves on here. The administration has its duties, too. Having stricter foreign language requirements will prepare students for the future. Students also need choices, though, and more practical languages to choose from. Yes, Spanish is the epitome of usefulness right now. But so are Chinese and Arabic. Spanish will get students far, but business majors will get much farther if they’re able to communicate with the one of the world’s largest exporter of manufactured goods--China. Pre-law majors would benefit from learning some Latin before immersing themselves in legal jargon (a.k.a.--Latin phrases). Hanover College offers French, German and Spanish, as does University of Indianapolis. Rose-Hulman offers its students French, Spanish and Japanese. Earlham does one better with German added to the list. If Franklin College wants to stand above the crowd, it’s going to need to beef up the foreign language requirements and offer students more choices.
Being a foreign language major myself, I must comment. This editorial gives no credit to the good that is coming out of the Franklin College language programs. Both students and professors of languages at Franklin College are extremely hard-working and, in the words of the author, "global-friendly". I cannot disagree with the argument that the world is shrinking and becoming less and less isolated. I don't think anyone can argue that. However, that is not to say that the language programs at Franklin College are out-dated or ineffective. The requirements of the Spanish and French programs are not so slack as some might believe; rather, these two programs are arguably more intensive and varied of any at Franklin. Simply because each student is not required to take a second language does not imply that the programs are lacking. Rather, it shows the true dedication of the students who do choose to better themselves through their language education; those who want to learn it are the ones who are taking the intiative to do just that. The idea that simply offering more language choices to FC students does not necessarily mean that the language program will be "better". In this case, quantity does not equal quality. By spreading ourselves too thin we could potentially do more damage than good. The goal of becoming more "global-friendly" is not met simply by offering more languages. If the idea is to keep up with globalization, there are infinite ways that this school (students and administrators alike) can become more globally aware. Branch out! Attend the programs and presentations hosted by the college (often times sponsored by the language departments). Ask questions. Travel. And yes, take a language. Let's give credit where credit is due. Those of us in the programs are learning, and isn't that the number one objective? I'm a firm believer in the Franklin College foreign language programs, and am proud of the work that is being done by myself, my fellow students, and the administration.
