Languages Build Global Connections
The study of foreign languages at Ripon (Spanish, French, Portuguese, Latin and Greek) forms an integral part of liberal education. Foreign language knowledge and skills are increasingly important and necessary today because economic, social and political interaction with other nations has become commonplace. Such multi-level and varied contacts have created a new, complex international marketplace and worldwide community, producing a need for greater emphasis on the study of foreign languages and the liberal arts.
The teaching of the Romance languages – Spanish, French and Portuguese – given their evolving nature, stresses oral communication, while using reading and writing to reinforce general language proficiency. Language majors are encouraged to use their knowledge of these languages to discuss contemporary cultural issues and to write essays giving personal interpretations and impressions. Advanced students are introduced to contemporary literary theory and its application to the understanding of literature. As the United States grows more aware of the need for individuals in its institutions and businesses who understand foreign cultures, so expands the need for individuals who can write position papers, proposals and other documents which require training in comprehension, analysis and problem-solving, skills for which foreign language studies prepare students.
The classical language, Latin, the foundation of the Romance languages, continues to provide important background for and insights into Western culture. Because of the very large Latin component in the English language, study of the classical languages is valuable to people considering careers where verbal skills are essential, such as law, journalism, medicine or the ministry. A full cycle of Latin courses (beginning, intermediate, advanced) is available; Greek is offered on demand; and classical studies courses like Greek mythology, based on texts in English translation, normally are offered each semester. The Uihlein Endowment in Classical Studies restored instruction in the classics to full-time status in 1988, and students interested in the combined foreign language major need not restrict themselves to modern languages alone.
The Ripon College Department of Romance and Classical Languages employs language assistants who are native speakers to enhance the program. The language assistants share views from their cultural perspective and provide students an opportunity to utilize their foreign language skills in and out of the classroom. Some of the venues for this interaction are conversation tables in the dining hall, foreign theatrical productions, and conversation sessions for groups of all proficiencies.
The 2008-09 language assistants are Flora Lienard (French) and Eva Falla Yanez (Spanish).
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