Chapter 9: Using Language Study To Develop Global Perspectives: Supporting Less Commonly Taught Languages Through Innovation and Partnerships

The study of Less Commonly Taught Languages (LCTLs) in U.S. higher education institutions is key to a robust and inclusive internationalized curriculum and provides students with linguistic abilities and regional perspectives in languages which are often of strategic importance to national interests. However, offering LCTL programs presents administrative challenges in supporting courses which are traditionally low-enrolled, despite demonstrated critical need across the public and private sectors for individuals with proficiency in these languages. To address these administrative challenges, this chapter provides an overview of the development and collaborative work of UW-Madison’s Language Program Office and its units, which include the Wisconsin Intensive Summer Language Institutes, Project Global Officer, and three Regional Flagship Languages Initiatives—for the study of South Asian languages (Hindi and Urdu), Indonesian, and Turkish, respectively— in developing language proficiency, regional expertise, and global citizens through its varied programs. This chapter begins by addressing the challenges of LCTL language learning and teaching. Focus is then given to how one lays the groundwork and creates networks for supporting LCTL language instruction, including administrative restructuring, providing pedagogy training and student support, and highlighting the power of partnerships and sponsored initiatives. The chapter concludes with summarizing how administrative restructuring and the power in partnerships helps address current challenges and is vital in creating sustainable language programs.