AWL - Advocacy

The Alliance of World Languages - Speak!

Advocacy

Here in Central Wisconsin we have a wonderfully diverse community, and all indications are that in the near future, it will be even more so. The fact is, the world is shrinking and the more important fact is: English is not the world’s only language.

The Alliance of World Languages advocates for world language study because we are aware that some very important changes are taking place in communities across America-changes that reflect our growing interaction with people and cultures throughout the world. In today’s increasingly global community, the concept of being “well-spoken” has taken on an entirely new meaning. The need to communicate, understand and do business with people and cultures in which English is not the primary language is becoming a high priority for more and more Americans. We value the academic, social and economic benefits of gaining proficiency in English as well as other languages.

Language study matters to learners of all ages, from preschoolers to senior citizens.

• Research has shown that young children are most receptive to learning
languages before the age of 6. The skills they acquire as youngsters make their academic performance better as they age, not only in languages but in other studies as well.

• Standardized test studies indicate that students who have concentrated on
Foreign language studies generally are among the highest performers in other subject areas.

• Studying languages exposes us to more than just language-we learn about
the cultures and societies of the native speakers and we are exposed to
their literature as it was created.

• Gaining language proficiency can be a stimulating, rewarding activity for
The adult who has been away from the classroom for many years. The mental discipline that is required and the resulting cultural exposure are life-enhancing experiences.

• Fluency in another language is an extra cache to a career resume.
Businesses in every field imaginable have an urgent and growing need
For employees who can help them do business, both in the U.S. and abroad, with people and companies who speak other languages. More Importantly, these new communicators of the 21st century need the special insights that come from intense language study…and understanding of the Cultures, the social customs and the language subtleties that signal the difference between what a person says and what they mean.

Most of the websites on our “Related Websites” page have information on advocacy for world languages.