Modern Languages and Cultures

Faculty

Kalen R. Oswald, associate professor, and chair.
B.A., Utah State University; M.A., Ph.D., University of Arizona. Appointed 2002.

Elizabeth Barrios, associate professor.
B.A., English Literature and Spanish, Knox College, Galesburg, Illinois; Ph.D., Romance Languages and Literature (Spanish), University of Michigan. Appointed 2016.

Perry W. Myers, professor.
B.A., M.B.A., Baylor University; M.A., Ph.D., University of Texas, Austin. Appointed 2004.

Marcie A. Noble, staff lecturer.
B.A., M.A., Ph.D., Western Michigan University. Appointed 2009.

Emmanuel T. Yewah, professor.
Licencié-es-Lettres, Maîtrise, Université de Yaoundé; M.A., Ph.D., University of Michigan. Appointed 1986.

Introduction

A student of modern languages and cultures at Albion can major in French, German or Spanish. A modern language major or minor will engage authentically and adapt to new cultures with ease, communicating effectively in the target language. Professors and Native Speaker Teaching Assistants enjoy working with students in class and in the I-Space Living and Learning Residence (operating in Dean Hall).

Special Features

The I-Space is a living and learning residence hall where language students live in community along with Native Speaker Teaching Assistants. There are weekly cultural activities, language tables, film series and other special events in I-Space.

Students are encouraged to take full advantage of the off-campus programs and other international experiences offered at Albion College.

Departmental Policy on Advanced Placement Credit and Placement

Students may obtain college credit according to their scores on a standardized Advanced Placement (AP) language examination administered at their high schools. A score of 3 merits one-half unit, a 4 merits one unit and a 5 merits one and one-half units of credit at Albion College. A maximum of one unit may be applied toward a major or minor in French, German or Spanish.

Before starting their studies at Albion College, first-year students with prior experience in French, German or Spanish complete an online placement. This assessment does not give college credit; its purpose is to place such students at the appropriate level.

Student Learning Outcomes

Majors

For Major in French, German or Spanish:

1. Students will be able to explain their ideas orally in the target language at the advanced-low level (ACTFL Proficiency Guidelines).

2. Students will be able to explain their ideas in the target language in writing at the advance-low level (ACTFL Proficiency Guidelines).

3. Students will be able to demonstrate intercultural competency related to target culture.

For Major in French, German or Spanish with Secondary or K-12 Education Certification:

1. Students will be able to explain their ideas orally in the target language at the advanced-low level (ACTFL Proficiency Guidelines).

2. Students will be able to explain their ideas in the target language in writing at the advance-low level (ACTFL Proficiency Guidelines).

3. Students will be able to demonstrate intercultural competency related to target culture.

Minors

For Minor in French, German or Spanish:

1. Students will be able to explain thier ideas orally in the target language at the intermediate-high level (ACTFL Proficiency Guidelines).

2. Students will be able to explain their ideas in the target language in writing at the intermediate-high level (ACTFL Proficiency Guidelines)

3. Students will be able to demonstrate intercultural competency related to target culture.

For Minor in French, German or Spanish with Secondary or K-12 Education Certification:

1. Students will be able to explain thier ideas orally in the target language at the intermediate-high level (ACTFL Proficiency Guidelines).

2. Students will be able to explain their ideas in the target language in writing at the intermediate-high level (ACTFL Proficiency Guidelines)

3. Students will be able to demonstrate intercultural competency related to target culture.

Majors and Minors

Requirements for Major

In most cases a major may be earned in French, German or Spanish by completing:

A minimum of eight units of study at the 200-level or higher; or nine units beginning at the 101 level. See below for specific details in each language program. Only one unit of Advanced Placement credit can count toward a major or minor. Students interested in pursuing language study are invited to meet with a faculty member to discuss their interests and the program offerings. Off-campus study in a department approved program is required for all majors, and highly recommended for minors. If a student cannot travel outside of the country, they should talk to the department chair to discuss other options.

All majors are required to participate in the I-Space Living and Learning Residence for at least one semester, and to earn the associated credit for Modern Languages and Cultures 110. If circumstances prevent a student from living in the I-Space, then the student must consult with the department chair.

It is recommended that all majors take cognate courses, for example in English, history, anthropology and sociology, relating to their language of study. Double majors are also encouraged.

Programs

Major

Minor