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Educational Belief

The importance of world language learning has become more and more self-evident, especially in a new era in which political, economic, and social demands become more and more global and interdependent. However, language teaching and learning cannot be separated from culture learning as increasing demand for academic growth is becoming more interdisciplinary and multilateral. MCTA strongly believes that language learning as a part of an area studies program is the future of world language study and language study is indispensable to social and cultural studies.

Teaching and learning a language like Chinese in combination with culture studies for K-College students have multiple meanings. It provides opportunity for students to achieve cross-cultural understanding and understand cross-cultural perspectives. It also enables students to learn about their own rich heritages as Americans and grow more insight into their own identities. Language and culture knowledge is not just a communicative skill necessary for a future career it is way of thinking and living for educated individuals.

MCTA would like to see a high school Asian studies program that offers basic courses that incorporate introductions to Asian countries, their histories, social systems, geographies, and philosophical ideas in comparison to the contexts of the American system, history, and ideas.

Last Modified: 12-9-2003