AUGUSTA UNIVERSITY
FOREIGN LANGUAGE SPRING 2017 NOTES Editor: Jana Sandarg
The importance of Languages in the 21st Century This publication of Foreign Language Notes examines how important languages are in the 21st century. Augusta University has entered an exciting new stage in the area of languages. In the last decade we have offered French, German, and Spanish, but three years ago, in conjunction with the opening of our Confucius Institute, we began offering Chinese. With the new emphasis on cyber security at our institution, we added Arabic this summer. And, in addition to the TESOL Certificate, we now offer a Linguistics Certificate, which is attractive to our incoming linguists. To top it all off, we have restarted the International Friendship Program for incoming international students. Our foreign language clubs and honor society are thriving, and students and faculty are energized. We will help change the 21st century. Publications such as these are rarely the work of one person. We want to thank everyone who submitted articles, texts and photographs, as well as the individuals who helped edit and proof the articles. Special thanks go to Alvina Quinn, who finalized this issue of Foreign Language Notes. Jana Sandarg, Editor
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L’importance des langues étrangères Par Chadelle Sappa French 3510, Dr. Liana Babayan La globalisation promeut l’étude des langues étrangères au 21ième siècle. Nous vivons aujourd’hui dans un monde plus interconnecté que jamais. La Globalisation unit les pays différents. Donc, il y a moins de frontières et plus de diversité. Pour vivre tranquillement dans un monde globalisé, il est très important de se comprendre. L’étude des langues étrangères nous permet d’unir les cultures différentes et rendre le monde plus paisible.
L'importance de la langue Étrangère au 21ème siècle Par Alysha Bailey French 3510, Dr. Liana Babayan Aujourd'hui, il est important d'apprendre une ou plusieurs langues étrangères. Je pense qu’étudier les langues étrangères, surtout celles qui servent aux communications internationales, est très influent pour le développement personnel et social. L'apprentissage des langues étrangères présente de multiples avantages, tels le développement économique, compréhension culturelle, la diversité, la sécurité nationale et bien sûr, des avantages académiques. Les langues nous permettent de découvrir de nouvelles cultures et ouvrent les portes vers des pays différents. Ceux qui parlent plusieurs langues peuvent contribuer de manière positive à l'évolution de notre société. Moi, j'aime étudier les langues étrangères, en particulier la langue française et l'arabe. C’est ma passion de communiquer efficacement avec les autres, surtout avec les membres de ma famille, qui vivent à Tripoli et qui sont ma source d'inspiration.
Pourquoi sont les langues étrangères importantes? Par Kirsten Jensen French 2002, Dr. Babayan A mon avis, les langues étrangères sont importantes parce qu'elles enseignent les autres cultures. J'aime voir les différences entre les sociétés étrangères et la nôtre, dans les aspects politiques et sociales spécifiquement. Dans mon expérience dans les classes de français, mes yeux ont ouvert à beaucoup de problèmes sociaux des autres pays. Par exemple, la lutte de féminisme est une controverse dans beaucoup de pays hors des États-Unis. Je veux devenir une écrivaine, et j'aime écrire sur mes expériences comme une femme dans une société qui change constamment. Beaucoup de femmes semblent être obligées de trouver un mari, de travailler et de s’occuper des enfants et de faire le ménage et… C’est bien de savoir que mes écrits peuvent être pertinents dans les autres pays. Il était intéressant aussi de comparer la situation politique en France à celle des États-Unis. Je n’étais jamais très intéressée à la politique avant, mais maintenant, quand je vois que beaucoup de problèmes aux États-Unis sont les mêmes en France, la politique est devenue important pour moi. Il est important pour les étudiants, et les gens en général, de voir les différences entre leur patrie et les autres pays. Je sais que l’expérience d’apprendre sur les autres cultures était très bénéficiale pour moi, et pour y arriver, on doit apprendre les langues étrangères.
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La langue des immigrants Par Jacob Bonitatibus French 1002, Dr. Liana Babayan Une fois un ami m’a dit que l’espagnol était une langue pour les immigrants, que c’était grossier et que je ne devrais pas le parler. Ma famille était d’accord avec lui, même si on ne le dirait pas. C’était l’ambiance dans laquelle j’étais élevé. «L’espagnol est pour les immigrants, ce n’est pas important, ni essentiel.» Mais j’ai continué à apprendre l’espagnol. J’ai cru mes parents et j’ai considéré l’espagnol une corvée. Une fois ma professeur d’espagnol au lycée a dit «Parler une deuxième langue, c’est avoir une deuxième âme». Elle m’a enseigné que l’espagnol n’est pas seulement une information linguistique, mais c’est un mode de vie. «C’est ma vie! C’est tout ce que je fais! Tout que je parle!» Et pour moi c’était quelque chose de nouveau. Au total, l’information dans ma vie c’étaient les faits. Tout le monde était systématique et organisé. Mais selon ma professeur, l’espagnol avait la vie et c’est à ce moment où je me suis demandé: «Comment est-ce que la vie d’une personne peut être si négligée?» En réalité, ce n’était pas le moment le plus poignant ou atroce, mais je crois que cela illustre les problèmes de ce pays. Il n’y a pas d’accent sur l’apprentissage des langues étrangères. L’idée de la vie dehors des États-Unis c’est comme une poison ou le parent que la famille ignore. Ce n’est pas seulement un problème des États-Unis, mais c’est un grand problème des États-Unis. Nous devrions promouvoir l’étude d’autres cultures, d’autres vies. Je crois que les langues étrangères, dans le monde moderne, existent principalement pour bâtir des liens entre les gens. Je crois que les langues existent pour montrer le respect. Si vous prenez du temps pour apprendre la langue d’une autre personne, vous êtes ouvert aux nouvelles idées. Vous êtes ouvert aux nouvelles expériences. Il y a une idée qu’apprendre la langue d’une autre personne est admettre que sa langue est meilleure que la vôtre. Mais ce n’est pas vrai. Les immigrants viennent ici pour trouver une meilleure vie. Ils essayent de comprendre notre mode de vie et ils nous respectent. Pourquoi est-il si difficile de les respecter? Les immigrants viennent ici du monde entier, et comment allons-nous ignorer toutes ces cultures? Toutes ces vies? Pour parler spécifiquement d’espagnol, les États-Unis est le pays avec une population hispanophone deuxième dans le monde. Comment ignore-t-on cela? Une fois quelqu’un m’a dit que «l’espagnol est une langue des immigrants» et je crois que nous devons leur montrer le respect qu’ils méritent et l’apprendre. La Statue (Réflexions au Musée de Louvre) Par Nicholas Sloan, French 3510, Dr. Liana Babayan Mon dieu, encore, je me tiens dans des salles de mon propre corps. Mes veines pulsent en tandem creux, les murmures qui font écho à travers le marbre. Nicholas Sloan
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Les yeux qui me regardent, changent toujours, et ne peuvent jamais rencontrer mon regard du ciel plié, inchangé comme les étoiles au-dessus. Entouré de multitudes admiratives perpétuelles, la houle des membres fluide, mes mains envieuses, sont gelées dans leur grâce parfaite éternelle.
Qui suis-je? Par un étudiant de French 1002, anonyme. Dr. Liana Babayan Qui suis-je? C'est une question à laquelle je pense souvent Si je savais la réponse, aurais-je adouci toutes mes difficultés? Je sais que je suis un être humain, mais qu'est-ce qui me fait un individu? Quand je vais à l'église, pourquoi me disent-ils que mes racines sont bibliques? Tourmenté par cette question, est-il possible d'obtenir une indication? Je pense que la réponse est juste en face de moi, dois-je plisser les yeux? Tu es celui que tu souhaites être Je peux t’aider avec tes difficultés si tu m’écoutes Tu n'es pas seulement un individu, tu es un roi La bible est absurde, c’est toi qu’on doit vénérer Je vais te donner la réponse à la vie si je peux avoir ton âme Toutes tes questions répondues, tu seras complet Mon fils, écoute-moi et pose-moi ta question J'ai rendu ta vie belle avec chaque jour une leçon Tu es ce qui je t’ai fait, tu es l’image miroir de moi J'ai fait les cieux, la terre, et aussi loin que l'œil peut voir Je suis ton Père, et si j'étais humain, je te ressemblerais Je t’ai donné les défauts, les lois, la cause et le libre arbitre aussi
Oda a mi gato Por Carra Key Spanish 2002 Dr. Jana Sandarg Mi gato Nugget está muy loco. Es negro, gris y blanco. Duerme todo el día Y vigila toda la noche. Corre por la casa Y me hace doler la cabeza Pero amo a mi dulce bebé Y siempre lo amaré.
Vis ta vie mon enfant, tu trouveras ton chemin
Las lenguas extranjeras son muy importantes
Las lenguas extanjeras
Por Cynterial Watson Spanish 2002, Dr. Jana Sandarg
Por Dennis Hollins Spanish 1002, Dr. Jana Sandarg
Las lenguas extranjeras son muy importantes en el siglo XXI para comunicar y relatar con la gente del mundo. Las lenguas muestran las cultures diferentes. No son sólo una forma de comunicar, sino que también muestran un mundo diferente de cada persona. Entonces, cuando los estudiantes aprendedn español, inglés o francés, aprenden “la vida de las lenguas.” Las lenguas viven y cambian cada año. También las lenguas son importantes en la escuela y el trabajo. Todas las personas del mundo no hablan la misma lengua. Por eso, es importante aprender otras lenguas, para entender a otras personas y su cultura.
Las lenguas extranjeras son importantes en el siglo XXI poruqe el mundo es más pequeño todos los días. La gente a veces no tiene muchos amigos en su país por las muchas aguerras y muertes. Pero si las personas pueden hablar más de una lengua, pueden conocer a otras personas de otros países y hacer amigos. Se dice que saber otras lenguas es bueno y se puede hacer amigos fuertes. El mundo será más agradable, con niños más felices. Por eso, todas las personas deben hablar dos lenguas o más. Page 5
Importancia de las lenguas extranjeras en el siglo XXI Por Pedro Hoyos Salcedo La globalización es uno de los signos que identifican el siglo XXI. Una de las exigencias de dicha globalización es el aprendizaje inaplazable de las lenguas extranjeras. Debido a lo anterior, todo nuevo profesional necesita comunicarse en diferentes idiomas. Es un conocimiento imperativo en la medicina y sus diferentes ramas, en el derecho, en los negocios, en la religión, en la antropología, en los medios de comunicación, en la diplomacia, en la historia, en la arqueología, en el turismo, en la educación, en los deportes, en la literatura, en el cine y en la música, entre otros. Se calcula que hay unos 7.050 idiomas en el mundo de hoy y son hablados por más de 7 mil millones de personas. De estos 7.050 idiomas, 2.200 se encuentran en Asia. La jerarquía idiomática parlante que regula la sociedad de hoy es: El chino mandarín es el idioma más hablado en todo el planeta tierra. Es hablado en Taiwán, en Singapur, en China y en Hong Kong. Tiene 50.000 ideogramas de los cuales los universitarios aprenden 10.000 y la persona común 3.000. 1.010 millones de personas lo hablan. El español o castellano es una lengua romance derivada del latín hablado y originada en el Reino de Castilla-España. Es la lengua de Cervantes y es una de las lenguas del futuro. 570 millones de personas lo hablan. El indostánico llamado por los lingüístas hindustaní o hindi-urdu, de la rama indoirania de la familia indoeuropea. Es una amalgama de dialectos hablados en la India y en ciertos puntos de Asia. El hindustaní incluye varios dialectos como el hindi y el urdu. 550 millones de personas lo hablan. El inglés es un idioma germánico occidental surgido en los reinos anglosajones de Inglaterra. Es conocido como “el idioma universal” pues múltiples países lo han adoptado como su segunda lengua. 510 millones de personas lo hablan. El ruso es una lengua indoeuropea de la rama eslava oriental. Es hablado en Rusia, Bielorrusia, Kirguistán, Kazajistán, Estonia, Georgia, Abjasia y Osetia del Sur. También es usado parcialmente en Ucrania y en otros países de Europa Oriental. Su estudio obliga primeramente a conocer las letras que son caracteres cirílicos; tiene declinaciones y varios modos gramaticales. 283 millones de personas lo hablan. El árabe o el arábigo, o algarabía (RAE) es un idioma de la familia semítica al igual que el arameo, el maltés, el acadio y el hebreo. Tiene una larga tradición histórica y religiosa y se presenta en el norte de África y en el Medio oriente. Algunos países del África y del Asia lo han adoptado como su segunda lengua. Su sistema de escritura es de derecha a izquierda y sus grafías presentan dificultades para los aprendices. 280 millones de personas lo hablan. El francés o le français o la langue française, al igual que el español y el portugués es una lengua romance derivada del latín hablado. Es la lengua de la buena comida, del placer del arte y del buen gusto vinícola. Hay 275 millones de francófonos en el mundo actual. El portugués es una lengua romance flexiva que se desarrolló al oeste de la Península Ibérica y al igual que el español es una lengua romance derivada del latín hablado. Es la lengua de países como Brasil, Portugal, Mozambique, Cabo Verde y Angola. 225 millones de personas lo hablan. El bengalí es la lengua oficial de Bangladesh. También lo es en los estados indios de Tripura y Bengala Occidental. Se escribe de izquierda a derecha. 215 millones de personas lo hablan. El alemán es una lengua indoeuropea del grupo de las lenguas germánicas occidentales. Es hablado en países como Alemania, Austria, Suiza, Bélgica, Namibia y Luxemburgo. Presenta algunos problemas de dificultad relacionadas con el aprendizaje de sus declinaciones en sus sustantivos y en la construcción de las oraciones. 180 millones de personas lo hablan. Page 6
Teniendo en la cuenta la jerarquía, la difusión e importancia anterior, la cultura moderna interactúa y gira alrededor de los innumerables idiomas que cuentan de sus tradiciones, de sus negocios, de su gente, de sus fuentes de trabajo, de sus finanzas, de sus proyectos, de sus tecnologías, de sus secretos, de sus misterios y de sus ideas. Ser bilingüe, o trilingüe o políglota es una gran garantía para alcanzar el éxito en la era de la modernidad y lo exige la globalización. El multilingüismo marca las diferencias académicas y competitivas entre los participantes, amplía el radio de acción entre trabajo e individuo; también genera confianza, facilita el intercambio, da una mejor calidad de vida y produce una mejor remuneración salarial. La opción del plurilingüismo activo también ayuda a establecer puentes y grandes redes entre las diferentes comunidades: el mundo de hoy está marcadamente interconectado. Conocer otro idioma, además del nativo, es una herramienta indispensable en el mundo de los negocios, de las leyes, de la medicina, de la diplomacia, de la educación, de los deportes, de la culinaria, de la política, de la religión, de la ciencia y de la tecnología. El profesional de hoy debe ser, como mínimo, bilingüe para poder competir a carta cabal en el mercado global del siglo XXI. Finis Coronat Opus.
La importancia de las lenguas extranjeras en el siglo XXI: la globalización, la economía y la política Por Giovanna Fabbri, Spanish 3300, Dr. Pedro Hoyos Salcedo Hablar otra lengua no es solamente una cuestión de habilidad, competencia o sofisticación. Hablar una lengua totalmente diferente de la suya tiene que ver con la cultura. Es muy importante, principalmente ahora en el siglo XXI, que hablemos al menos otra lengua diferente de la nuestra, porque éste es el primer paso para entender las diferentes culturas, economías y políticas. Yo pensaba que podría entender bien otra cultura sin entender la lengua del lugar, pero ahora que vivo en otro país, comprendo que hablar la lengua es la respuesta para un buen entendimiento del país. La comunicación es la llave de todo, sin ella, no podremos saber ni la mitad de la cultura, política y economía. Yo pienso que el inglés y el español son muy necesarios para los días de hoy, porque éstas son las lenguas que abren las puertas para la cultura de muchos países. También pienso que además de ellas, es muy importante que la persona intente también practicar un poco de la lengua del país, para entender mejor su cultura; cuando viajo, por ejemplo, yo siempre llevo conmigo aplicaciones en mi móvil que me ofrecen un poco de la lengua que quiero aprender. Entender otras lenguas y entender otras culturas es contribuir para la globalización, que aumenta cada día. El mundo no existe más sin la globalización, por eso es muy importante que tengamos en la mente que intentemos practicar otras lenguas. Además, yo creo que cada vez más las economías y políticas estarán interconectadas, por eso es esencial que tengamos más y más personas que hablen diferentes lenguas. Hablar lenguas extranjeras es tener más empatía, porque así se puede comprender más de los problemas de los otros. No solamente los problemas, sino también todas las cualidades. En este mundo de hoy, es más que necesario que sepamos más de nuestros vecinos para poder ayudarlos y no perjudicarlos.
Aprender lenguas Por Tannar Singer Spanish 1002 Dr. Jana Sandarg Es muy importante aprender las lenguas extranjeras porque vas a poner en tu corazón y en tu cabeza un nuevo aprecio de las culturas que son diferentes de la tuya. Si aprendes español, puedes hablar con la gente cuando viajas al extranjero, o puedes hablar con la gente en Texas, Nuevo México y Arizona. Visitar otros países es importante para conocer bien a los habitantes. Necesitas saber otras lenguas en el siglo XXI porque nunca sabes dónde la vas a hablar— en el aeropuerto o en las vacaciones.
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La importancia de las lenguas extranjeras en el siglo XXI Por Victoria Forsmark, Spanish 3300, Dr. Pedro Hoyos Salcedo Las lenguas extranjeras son muy importantes en el siglo XXI. Pienso que es necesario saber más de una lengua en el mundo moderno porque es muy beneficioso en los trabajos, en la globalización y en las políticas. Muchos trabajos requieren que sus empleados sepan más de una lengua en caso de hablar con un cliente que no sepa inglés. También muchos trabajos necesitan personas que puedan traducir de un idioma a otro. En lo político, pienso que las personas que dirigen el país necesitan saber más de una lengua porque necesitan saber más de los otros países y de lugares para ser familiar con las situaciones y con las personas en los otros países. Podemos aprender mucho sobre otros países y sus culturas a través de su idioma porque los idiomas contienen la historia de los países. La globalización de muchas lenguas también es muy importante. Cuando una lengua se extiende por todo el mundo, muchas personas ganan la capacidad de comprender a otros países y lugares. Inglés es una lengua que se globalizó y que es muy beneficioso porque ahora casi todas las personas en los aeropuertos y restaurantes pueden comunicarse con cierto nivel. Pero yo pienso que todas las personas necesitan saber más de inglés porque, por supuesto, el inglés no es la única lengua en el mundo. Ojalá que en el futuro todas las personas en el mundo puedan tener la oportunidad de saber más de una lengua. Pienso que este cambio puede cambiar el mundo a ser más tranquilo y feliz.
La importancia de las lenguas extranjeras en el siglo XXI: la globalización, la economía y la política Por Meredith Gay, Spanish 3300, Dr. Pedro Hoyos Salcedo Ser multilingüe es una de las mejores cosas que se puede ser en este mundo en el siglo XXI. Hablar más de una lengua tiene evidentes beneficios prácticos en el mundo globalizado de hoy, y se ha convertido en algo habitual para las personas. Pero el beneficio de ser bilingüe no se limita a tener conversaciones con personas alrededor del mundo. Hay muchos beneficios que creo que se pueden dividir en unos pocos grupos: cognitivos, culturales y sociales. Hablar una lengua extranjera mejora la funcionalidad de su cerebro al desafiar a reconocer, negociar significado y comunicación en los sistemas del idioma diferente. Esta habilidad aumenta la capacidad para resolver problemas. “Learning a second language offers proven benefits for intelligence, memory, and concentration and lowered risks of dementia and Alzheimer’s” (Alban). Hablar una segunda lengua, incluso se ha oído que alguien es mejor en las multitareas; las personas bilingües pueden pasar de una tarea a otra más rápidamente. Millones de personas participan en actividades como el cerebro en línea para mantenerse mentalmente agudo. Otro gran beneficio es que puedes entender una cultura diferente a través de su vocabulario, modismos, expresiones y otras características que la lengua ha incorporado en él. Los beneficios sociales del aprendizaje de otras lenguas tienen que aumentar su confianza, mejorar sus perspectivas de empleo y también mejorar sus habilidades de comunicación. Creo que si usted está aprendiendo puede tener ventajas adicionales de mejorar la disciplina, la planificación y la gestión del tiempo, todas necesarias para lograr las auto metas. Aprender un nuevo idioma puede ampliar los horizontes de muchas maneras, desde el punto de vista social, cultural y cognitivamente. Page 8
La importancia de las lenguas extranjeras en el siglo XXI Por Randall Julian King, Jr., Spanish 3300, Dr. Pedro Hoyos Salcedo La importancia de las lenguas extranjeras en nuestro mundo no puede ser cuestionada porque ellas son usadas en muchas áreas de la vida tal como en la educación, en la economía, en la política y en la diplomacia. Según la Sociedad Lingüística de los Estados Unidos hay 6.909 lenguas específicas en el mundo. Las lenguas más habladas en el mundo son chino, inglés y español. Las lenguas extranjeras se utilizaron durante las campañas presidenciales en 2016 por Jeb Bush uno de los candidatos republicanos. El habló español cuando hubo muchos hispanohablantes en su reunión electoral. Las lenguas extranjeras son usadas extensamente en nuestro sistema de educación en los Estados Unidos. Muchos programas del estudio de las lenguas extranjeras son ofrecidos en las escuelas secundarias, las preparatorias y las universidades. Sin embargo, en los otros países del mundo los estudiantes quieren aprender inglés como una lengua extranjera. Se puede ganar un título en una lengua extranjera en unas universidades en muchos países y hay muchas posibilidades para usar estos títulos en muchas aéreas de empleo. Se puede trabajar para las Naciones Unidas, la OMS o una otra organización bien conocida. Las lenguas extranjeras son usadas en la economía también. Según la Oficina del Censo, Los Estados Unidos comercia con 15 de los países más grandes del mundo. El total del comercio con estos países costó 3.846,40 mil millones de dólares en diciembre del 2013. Solamente tres de los quince países hablan inglés como lengua oficial. Sin embargo, los traductores e intérpretes son usados por los dos países en el comercio. Las lenguas extranjeras son usadas en la política también. El candidato Jeb Bush habló en español durante unos de sus eventos electorales. Esto le dio una gran ventaja sobre sus adversarios. Aunque no ganó él podía conectarse con sus seguidores que no podían hablar inglés. Es una cosa buena cuando los líderes de un país pueden hablar a todos los ciudadanos. Finalmente, las lenguas extranjeras son usadas en la diplomacia. Según los Naciones Unidas hay seis lenguas oficiales de la organización. Las lenguas oficiales son árabe, chino, inglés, francés, ruso y español. Estas lenguas son las lenguas más habladas en el mundo y las Naciones Unidas las usa para realizar las metas para todos los miembros estados del grupo. En este escenario las lenguas son las más útiles porque hay un intercambio internacional. En conclusión, las lenguas extranjeras todavía son útiles en cada parte del mundo. Ellas pueden ser usadas en muchas áreas de la vida. Ellas son útiles en la educación, en la economía, la política y la diplomacia. Cada país necesita tener gente que pueden hablar y traducir varias lenguas extranjeras. Sin esa gente el país no puede funcionar como un país efectivo.
Las lenguas de los vecinos Por Mason Ryals Spanish 2002, Dr. Jana Sandarg
La comunicación es algo muy importante en la vida. La cultura vive en las lenguas de otros países. Sin l enguas y traductores, no podríamos hablar con el mundo. Si no estudiamos las lenguas, no sabemos otras ideas. En las escuelas necesitamos enseñar muchos idiomas porque nuestros hijos necesitan tener la abilidad de hablar con otras personas. Sin lenguas extranjeras, no tenemos ninguna variedad tampoco. En los Estados Unidos, somos inmigrantes y tenemos muchas diferencias. La comida, la religión y la cultura, por ejemplo. Aprender es importante, pero saber algo de las lenguas de nuestros amigos y vecinos también es importante. Page 9
Das Studentenleben in drei Stimmen. Ein Versuch im Stil von Hermann Hesse, Wolfgang Borchert und Benjamin Lebert von Richard Dillenbeck (pictured at right) German 3520, Dr. Rob Bledsoe Die Hausaufgabe war, eine Szene in dem Stil drei deutscher Schriftsteller zu schreiben. Hier sind drei kurze Texte in der Manier von Wolfgang Borchert, Hermann Hesse und Benjamin Lebert... In der Manier von Wolfgang Borchert…. Es ist Zeit, die Stiegen hinaufzusteigen, hinauf, hinaufsteigen. Ich will die Stiegen hinaufsteigen, die Stiegen, die Treppen, immer höher bis zum zweiten Stock. Vorwärts die Schritte, weiter vorwärts noch den Gang entlang, den langen Gang entlang, auf den Gang entlang. Ich fühle mich wohl den langen Gang entlang, den breiten glänzenden Gang entlang, ein bisschen weiter den Gang entlang,…. Jetzt endlich bin ich da, das 355, aber ja bin ich da, in den 355 wird alles klar. Ich betrete das 355, muss nicht weiter suchen, muss mich nicht weiter den Gang entlang, den langen glänzenden Gang entlang, ich bin da, das 355, ich hab es gefunden. Dort sitzt meine einzige Kollegin, die kleine M die auch gleich den ganzen glänzenden Gang entlang gegangen ist. Dort sitzt sie stumm, stillschweigend sitzt sie, auf den Schirm fokussiert. Ich trete ein, begruße sie, sie murmelt was und bleibt stumm, auf dem Schirm fokussiert sie und ich denkemir im Stillen warum sind wir beide den ganzen langen Gang entlang gegangen? In der Manier Hermann Hesse…. Im Schatten ihres Selbstzweifels, im Schatten ihrer scheinbar endlosen indivduellen Ziele, in der Sonne der Gelegenheit einer fremden Sprache zu überwinden, wandern die zwei Komillitonen durch den Eingang nah an den verschiedenen Gastronomiebetrieben mit gemeinsamem Sitzbereich und Selbstbedienung, durch den hohen Hallen der Universität, durch den langen Gang mit Klassenräumen und Büros auf beiden Seiten. Sie erklettern die Treppen vom Erdgeschoss bis auf der zweiten Etage, flüchtig blickend weder rechts noch links, bis sie den richtigen Klassenzimmer, das 355, erreichten. Dort, wartend, in geduldiger Weise, warte auf sie der Buddha, der Vollendete. Die Augen des Buddhas blicken still zum Schreibtisch, still im kommenen Gleichmut strahlten seinen Augen auf einen Schokoladenriegel , der nicht zufällig auf dem Tisch lag . Die Zwei wussten dass es ein guter Tag wurde. In der Manier Benjamin Lebert… Es war Dienstag. Schon Zeit für die dumme Verabredung mit unserem Professor, der Robert Bledsoe hieß. Wir sollten etwas über unseren “persönlichen” Gedanken schreiben. Was solls! Glaubt er dass wir Jungen die meisten Zeit nicht von Mädel denken? Dass muss er wissen. Nur wenn er ein bloßer Idiot wäre, denkt er anderes. Naja, Papi hat mir beraten, sei brav und hält alles durch. Ich würde lieber diese Verabredung anpissen. Aber ich weiß die Kate wartet schon, sie ist immer rechtzeitig, was sonst? Sie ist kein Krüppel wie ich und ich weiss es wird für mich Überstunden geben, wenn ich nicht auftauche. Scheiße, Mensch, ich muss hin. Page 10
Games for the German classroom
In Fall 2016 students in Dr. Bledsoe’s GRMN 4950 “Spiele/-n/-d Lernen,” which roughly translates to “learn games, learn to play, learn playfully,” created games designed to test (and improve) players’ knowledge of German grammar, language and culture. The games include old favorites like memory match and jeopardy, and a version of Uno based on verb conjugation, as well as more elaborate board games. In “Links, rechts, gerade aus” players progress towards the finish line by answering questions from the question bank for the German driver’s license exam. In “das Berlin Spiel” players negotiate the Berlin subway system, while trying to visit various landmarks and sites in Berlin and return to their hotel before the other players. Sounds easy, but watch out for the transfer tickets you pick up whenever you change lines! While playing “das Deutsch(land) Spiel” each player works to gather rewards by answering questions about German and Germany in various categories. The player who has answered a question from each category correctly and returns home first is the winner.
The following students developed the games and built them. Jessica Faust Kait Fruechting Nick Labon Mark Wright
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Chinese language students gathering at the JSAC Hardy room on March 13, 2017.
Chinese Language Students Gathering On March 13, 2017, the students from four Chinese language courses came together at the Hardy room of Jaguar Student Activities Center with Confucius Institute faculty, Mrs. Xiaoxin Zhang, and Confucius Institute Associate Director, Dr. Hailei Zhao. Though the students’ majors range from history, anthropology, foreign language to computer science, they have been able to greet and introduce themselves in Chinese. During the event, students were happy to share their experience of learning Chinese as a foreign language. Though learning Chinese is not easy, they all expressed their appreciation to the instructor, Mrs. Xiaoxin Zhang, and joyful atmosphere in her classes.
The foreign Language faculty held a going away party for Dr. Zhang. L-R: Jana Sandarg, E. Nicole Meyer, Jun Zhao, Pedro Page 12 Hoyos Salcedo, Rob Bledsoe, Xiaoxin Zhang, Giada Biasetti, Sara Griswold and Chris Botero. Safe travels, Xiaoxin!
Rachel Clay participated in “Chinese Bridge” Chinese Proficiency Competition On April 22-23, 2017, the Preliminary Competition in Southern USA of 16th “Chinese Bridge” Chinese Proficiency Competition for College Students and 10th “Chinese Bridge” for Secondary School Students were held in University of Texas at Dallas. 12 College students who come from Texas A&M University, University of West Florida, University of North Florida, Wesleyan College, Auburn University at Montgomery, Texas Christian University, Augusta University, Kennesaw State University, University of Texas at Dallas, Xavier University, University of Oklahoma, University of Houston, and 14 middle or high school students attended the competition. This preliminary competition was sponsored by the Education Office, Consulate General of P.R. China in Houston. The competition included the Chinese language written test, speech and performance. The 1st prize winners of college group and middle school group will attend the final and compete with other contestants all around the world in autumn in Beijing, China. Almost all of the contestants presented their fantastic Chinese language proficiency and amazing performance. Rachel Clay, one of the Chinese language students from Confucius Institute at Augusta University, participated in the competition and was awarded performance prize. At last, Andrew Little from Texas A&M University won the 1st prize of the college student group. Rachel said, “Through this competition, I was able to achieve so much more that I first expected. I met students from around the nation who shared similar passions as my own, and we were able to enthuse together and learn from each other. The entire experience allowed me to learn a significant amount of Chinese in only two days, presenting me with opportunities to apply my Chinese language skills outside the classroom.” “Overall, this entire experience provided me with confidence in my language abilities and I only hope that students, including those at Augusta University, will continue to take advantage of this incredible language opportunity.”
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另一个家 By Justin Maher Chinese 2002, Professor Xiaoxin Zhang
马山
我喜欢中国，因为中国很大、很美丽。我去过云南，甘肃，青海和西藏等。这些地 方让我情不自禁地联想到以前的美国，美国有一首著名的诗歌, 《草原上的的家》, 我觉得这首诗歌写的就是中国美丽的西部。
“给我一个家， 那里有牦牛漫步， 那里有鹿和 羚羊在玩耍. 那里很少听到令人泄气的话， 因为万里无云, 终日晴朗。 家, 草原上的家……” 我想让更多的美国人认识到, 中国不仅有很多大城市, 而且在西部还有许多非常美 丽的地方: 在云南,有云雾缭绕的玉龙雪山; 在青海, 有清澈湛蓝的青海湖; 在甘肃敦 煌还有历史悠久的汉代长城。 我喜欢中国, 希望你们也去中国西部看一看!
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Another home By Justin Maher Chinese 2002, Professor Xiaoxin Zhang Translation of article on previous page I like China, because China is a big country that has a lot of natural beauty. Having been to Yunnan, Gansu, Qinghai, and Tibet, these places remind me of America's Old West. America has a famous song: "Home on the Range," which, I feel, better describes China's western regions today -- even more than America's own. “Give me a home, Where the buffalo roam Where the deer and the antelope play Where seldom is heard a discouraging word 'cause the skies aren't cloudy all day. Home -- home on the range…… I hope to let more Americans know that China not only has a lot of big cities, but -- especially in the lesstravelled west -- also has memorable expansive vistas: in Yunnan, there are misty mountains, such as Lijiang's Jade Dragon Snowy Mountain; In Xining, there are the sky-mirroring pure waters of Qinghai Lake; and in Gansu's Dunhuang-region one can see older, Han-dynasty, iterations of the Great Wall. Having a passion for it myself, I entreat one to go see this other side of China.
Farewell to Xiaoxin Zhang The foreign language faculty held a special going away party for Xiaoxin and warmly thanked her for her three years of wonderful service to our department and to our students. The Department of English and Foreign Languages held a luncheon in her honor, and also gave her gifts. We have had a lot of positive feedback from students and faculty, and Chinese language and culture have now become a part of our Foreign language Notes. Xiaoxin said, “I would like to thank you for the farewell meeting, for all the support, help, encouragement and friendship during my years in EFL Department! Thank you for having me as a part of such a cohesive team. Thank you for the gifts, cards, beautiful flowers, cake, food! I've really enjoyed teaching Chinese and working with you here in the past three years. I'll never forget the most wonderful experience and memories in Augusta, Georgia in my life.” Mrs. Xiaoxin Zhang will get back to China to teach Chinese to international students in Shanghai University of TCM, after July, 2017. We will miss her, but we hope she comes back to visit! Page 15
The History of the International Friendship Program by Jana Sandarg The International Friendship Program was founded in September 1996 by Jana Sandarg and Lee Bollinger, a Spanish professor and Communications professor respectively, who were dedicated to welcoming our new international students to our campus. We organized the students and faculty to serve as friends to the new internationals, and held events throughout the year to include them in campus life. The new students were invited to have Thanksgiving and Christmas dinners in faculty homes; we held an international Thanksgiving dinner the Friday before the holiday; and we held picnics, ice cream socials, potlucks and talent shows throughout the years. When Augusta University merged with Georgia Health Sciences University, we had to reorganize our program to adjust to new systems and organizations. During the academic years 2014-2015 and 2015-2016, we put the program on hold. This past fall, we restarted the program under the leadership of Dr. Jun Zhao, a professor of English as a second language, in the Department of English and Foreign Languages. Dr. Jun Zhao is the new director of the program, and she brings a lot of new ideas and enthusiasm to the table. Thank you to all the faculty and students who have helped make this program such a success. We know it will continue to thrive under the direction of Dr. Zhao. Special thanks are offered to Rhonda Armstrong, our department chair who has helped us reestablish the program, and to Rachel Martin, who has coordinated the program details, such as applications, flyers, physical arrangements and catering. Both Rachel Martin and Alvina Quinn, our valued staff in our department, worked hard to make our events successful, even attending them to help. If you have studied abroad, you know the challenges of adjusting to a new culture and language. Be a part of the Friendship Program and welcome these international students, who are studying abroad at our university!
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International students, their AU student “friends,� faculty and families join to celebrate Thanksgiving on Friday, November 18, 2016.
The International Friendship Program 2016-2017 By Dr. Jun Zhao, Program Director The International Friendship Program, sponsored by the department of English and Foreign Languages, aims at helping new international students getting adjusted to life and college study in the USA. Domestic students could also benefit from such a program to appreciate diversity and different perspectives while interacting with international students. Each semester, we hold several gather-together events to get to know each other better. Interested AU students can apply to become a friend to incoming international students. With your new international friends, you will set up your own schedule of when and where to meet for your friendship to develop. In the past, we have held an ice cream social, a Thanksgiving dinner, and potluck parties. Our special thanks go to our students who served as friends in for the academic year 2016-2017: Colleen Fisher, Nigeria Opapeju, Trevaris Summerour, Danielle Clark, Poria Welch, Irisa Wheeler, Marina Rosanne Monica, Amanda Parrish, Samantha Carr, Racheal Wilson and Jia Wang. Thank you!
Above, ice cream social on August 25, 2016 and at left, potluck dinner on March 24, 2017.
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International Friendship Program For Augusta University students: Be a friend to a new international student at Augusta University *Meet international students and learn about their language & culture *Welcome them to Augusta University and make them feel at home *Be a friend!
Applications available in the Department of English and Foreign Languages Allgood Hall, Summerville campus
Deadline for application: July 21st For more information, please contact: Rachel Martin: rmarti12@augusta.edu
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2016-2017 FLAIR Events FLAIR Conference 2016 August 27, 2016
World Languages and Career Readiness in Georgia – a Worldly Fit! Featuring Michaela Claus-Nix Several new initiatives in the state of Georgia are putting World Languages in the forefront as a career readiness skill. Michaela Claus-Nix is the Program Specialist for World Languages and Workforce Initiatives at the Georgia Department of Education. She gave an update on the state of World Languages in K-12 public education in Georgia, an overview of two new seals for graduating high school students, the International Skills Diploma Seal and the Seal of Bi-literacy, and a synopsis of the rapidly growing dual language immersion programs and the 50/50 model recommended by the Georgia Department of Education. The conference was free to all FLAIR members, and was sponsored by FLAIR and the Department of English and Foreign Languages.
Michaela Claus-Nix, FLAIR conference speaker www.augusta.edu/flair
Victoria Vox in Concert Victoria Vox, a singer-songwriter in English, French and Spanish, was invited back to Augusta due to popular demand. She and Jack Maher performed at the AU Summerville campus on January 30, 2017 for the French students and teachers in the Central Savannah River Area. The concert was free, and schools from South Carolina and Georgia attended the morning event. Victoria charmed the audiences with her voice and ukulele! www.victoriavox.com. Special thanks go to Dr. E. Nicole Meyer for inviting Victoria Vox, as well as making arrangements for housing, food, contract, transportation and details at the venue. Dr. Meyer introduced us to Victoria Vox, and this is the second time she has visited our campus. Page 19
Le Cercle Franรงais by Rachel Clay, President Dr. Liana Babayan, Advisor Le Cercle Franรงais, Augusta University's French club, participated in several events the semester of Spring 2017 as well as last semester, Fall 2016. In the Fall, our organization held an on-campus Halloween party. Many members attended, dressing in French Halloween costumes and bringing many French dishes to share. Both semesters, we had regular meetings at local coffee shops, where we held conversation tables; many students were able to practice their French in a casual and comfortable environment. In February of Spring 2017 semester, Le Cercle Franรงais held a bake sale to collect funds for future events. While selling our French style baked goods, we were able to promote our club to other AU students. We are excited to continue future events and encourage all students' participation.
At left, French students enjoy lunch at New Moon. Below right, French club members hold a bake sale. Below left, a French club member dresses for the Halloween party.
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At left, French club meets at Buono for a conversation table.
Below are photos from the French club Halloween party, with yummy French dishes.
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Living the Life, Living the Language: Integrating Experiential Learning into French Written Expression By E. Nicole Meyer Spring 2018 French 3300 /4300 students will take part in a simulation in which they are immersed in the sights, sounds and experiences of living in the target culture. Technology and student creativity intersect as we create characters that live and interact in a city of our choice. After selecting our city, we will use language for practical and realistic purposes, engaging authentically in multiple modes of communication. We may reach out to a realtor for real estate ads; we will design and furnish our apartments using actual resources used by those living in the city. Exploring our surroundings, we will visit cinemas, discos or sports activities that we choose from the locale and do so much more, together. Writing with a purpose while immersing ourselves in the simulation improves our writing, collaboration and knowledge of authentic culture. Authentic photos provided by Dr. Meyer
Above: Three photos provided by Dr. Meyer to accompany the article on her French 3300/4300 class, slated for spring 2018.
At left (L-R): Matthew Mason, Dr. E. Nicole Meyer, Grace Cornelison and Rachel Clay.
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Women to Meet: L’Autobiographie féminine française et francophone
Colette Marguerite Duras
Women’s stories matter. Considering life narratives, this course, new to Augusta University, permits us to look at complex lives, groundbreaking authors and how trauma can reveal itself subtly, between the lines. Adult women writers look back—recounting those memorable moments of childhood, postcolonial and racial divides, and the inevitable separation we all face, when a parent dies. We will question how women describe and define themselves despite social constraints and other social and family factors. Whether literature, psychology or Women’s and Gender Studies fascinate you, this course is for you. Dr. Meyer looks forward to welcoming you to this Fall 2017 course!
Images from: https://www.poetryfoundation.org/ harriet/2015/04/notes-toward-a-new-language-holes-onmarguerite-duras/ &https://www.brainpickings.org/2016/08/15/ colette-earthly-paradise-writing-criticism/ & youtube interview.
Spring 2018 French for Medical and Health Professions to be offered! French 3620 will be offered in Spring 2018. The course taught by Dr. E. Nicole Meyer, 2016-2017 SoTL Fellow at AU, offers students the opportunity to immerse themselves in health and medical topics tailored to their interests. In addition, through authentic materials and interactive activities, students will acquire cultural knowledge and vocabulary relevant to potential future professions or to their travels. From exploring cultural differences of pharmacies and medical practices to practical information that will help any traveler to a French-speaking culture, this course Page 23
Alpha Mu Gamma Fall 2016 & Spring 2017 by Pedro Hoyos Salcedo, Advisor The Iota Phi Chapter of Alpha Mu Gamma, a National Collegiate Foreign Language Honor Society, is sponsored by the Department of English and Foreign languages at Augusta University (AU). This year’s officers were Katie Humphrey, President; Kymberlee Sines, Vice President; Georgie Latremouille, Secretary, and Alexandria Powell, Treasurer. Alpha Mu Gamma Awards for 2016-2017 were as follows: Outstanding Student in Spanish: Morgan Ryffe and Outstanding Student in French: Grace Cornelison. Throughout the year the AU Chapter of Alpha Mu Gamma sponsors lectures and cultural events. Among other activities there is a popular event that is hosted by Alpha Mu Gamma each semester: the International Foreign Language Game Night where students play games from various cultures improving their foreign language skills. Another activities held were Salsa Night with instructor Santrena Hammonds, Book Review: Rare & Old; a successful event with speaker Frank Iodice A Brief Dialogue on Happiness, Music and the Universe with Victor and Kathy Levy, and induction ceremony, as the final event of the year, whose keynote speaker was Dr. Giada Biasseti presenting Interpersonal and Intercultural Advantages of the Language Student and the Translator. This Spring 2017, the Chapter initiated 21 new full members, and since its inception, the Iota Chapter has initiated 862 students. Membership requirements include at least two grades of “A” in the study of the same language. The courses cannot be ones repeated for credit. Students must also have an overall minimum GPA of 3.0. If you are interested in serving as an officer, or becoming a member, please contact the office of
Morgan Ryffé, 2017 Alpha Mu Gamma Outstanding Student of Spanish Page 24
Grace Cornelison, 2017 Alpha Mu Gamma Outstanding Student of French
A Brief Dialogue on Happiness with Frank Iodice By Dr. Giada Biasetti th
On Wednesday, April 12 , Frank Iodice, an Italian freelance journalist and writer, came to Augusta University to talk about happiness. He delivered a strong message during his presentation sponsored by Alpha Mu Gamma, and students showed great interest in the subject. They were very involved and made significant contributions to the argument on what happiness means to them. Students soon realized that happiness is the only human passion that will never perish under the modern politics of hate and obsessive competition. They asked themselves how they would reach their objectives and understood that each one of us has a different definition of happiness. Three keywords related to happiness were mentioned during the presentation: passion, love, and enthusiasm. Happiness is easy to find; sometimes we just need the bravery to run after it and overcome our fear. His final message to students was on the importance of reading. According to Frank Iodice, reading is the only weapon we need to overcome the politics of hate and compulsive competition. For more information on Iodice’s novels, a downloadable version of his Brief Dialogue on Happiness (available in English, Spanish, and Italian), and access to other articles, you can follow him on Facebook and read his blog at frankiodice.it.
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Los Amigos Hispanos
by Jana Sandarg, Advisor
The Spanish club offered a wide variety of cultural programs, service projects and conversation groups this year. The fall 2016 officers were Taylor Thompson (President), Morgan Ryffé (Vice President), Anna Warriner (Secretary) and Shanaea Bethea (Treasurer). Taylor was off campus doing her student teaching in spring 2017, so she stepped down as president. The spring 2017 officers were Morgan Ryffé (President), Betsy Gaffney (Vice President), Anna Warriner (Secretary) and Meredith Gay (Treasurer). Each semester the club held tertulias (Spanish conversation group) on Fridays twice a month at Mi Rancho. In the fall, we participated in the Student Activities’ Club Fest, and we sponsored a Meet and Greet, with the French club, the German table and Alpha Mu Gamma, to introduce all foreign language students to our activities. Los Amigos Hispanos offered volunteer opportunities with organizations such as La Casa de Esperanza, ALAS, Centro Educativo and Learn English for Living. In the fall, students celebrated Hispanic Heritage Month by working at the festival sponsored by the Asociación Cultural Hispanoamericana (ACHA). On Tuesday, September 13th, Our president, Taylor Thompson, gave a presentation on “Martes Trece,” since Tuesday the 13th is considered a day of bad luck for most Hispanic cultures. We held a game night, playing Scrabble in Spanish, and a Zumba event, exercising while enjoying the music. Our club had a food booth and displays at the International Festival on November 2nd, and we co-sponsored the International Thanksgiving Dinner, on November 18th, with the International Friendship Program. After our Christmas dinner and the end of the term, we bought and wrapped Christmas gifts for needy Hispanic children, and delivered them, along with a lot of other donations for the families, to a local church for distribution. During spring semester 2017, we held a salsa night, with Douglas Sloan as our salsa instructor. A really unique event was a flamenco workshop, provided by the performers of Flamenco Vivo, Carlota Santana’s group that gave a concert on campus. Students filled the room, listening to the dancers and musicians explain in Spanish their various roles. They played some guitar, sang a bit and danced a bit. It was a very special treat—and they gave us autographed flyers. During our spring “pause,” we went to St. Augustine, Florida, to enjoy the cultural sites, food and beach. Our annual Día del Idioma event was held on April 17th, with Dr. Pedro Hoyos Salcedo directing the contests, with Brígida Ramos and Giada Biasetti as judges. Students from AU and other schools participated in spelling, culture, dance and music contests. Attendees enjoyed displays, music and Hispanic dishes. Our final event for the year was a cultural festival, “Viva España,” held on April 21st in conjunction with ACHA. The students of Dr. Sandarg’s Culture of Spain class put on the whole festival, from the program and publicity to the food and entertainment. They even wrote and performed an original play based on a legend they had read in the class. Practice your Spanish and learn about Spanish-speaking cultures… join us this fall!
Meet and Greet in August, 2016
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Tertulia at Mi Rancho.
Zumba
Salsa night
Below, Spanish club officers (L-R): Meredith Gay, Betsy Gaffney, Morgan RyffĂŠ.
At San Marcos Castillo in St Augustine, Florida. L-R: Douglas Sloan, Francis Medina, Nicholas Sloan, Ashley Chinnery, Jana Sandarg & Bob Sandarg. Page 27
Día del Idioma. Above, a couple in the dance contest. At far right, (L-R seated) Pedro Hoyos Salcedo, Giada Biasetti and Brígida Ramos. (L-R standing) are Jana Sandarg and Sara Griswold.
¡Viva España! Festival. Above, students perform an original play. At right, members from ACHA pose at the “photo booth.” Below, attendees enjoy food and entertainmnet provided by the students in Dr. Sandarg’s culture of Spain class.
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Salamanca, Spain
by Jana Sandarg
June 2016 was a time to remember…. nineteen students and two faculty journeyed to Spain for an unforgettable summer. Thirteen Augusta University students wowed Madrid: Sarah Boudet, Julian Brown, Emma Coleman, Betsy Gaffney, Elizabeth Gay, Brittany Hatcher, Crystal Juhasz, María Mata, Mayra Maura, Rebecca Rowland, Morgan Ryffé, Taylor Thompson and Ashley White. Elizabeth Gay went in 2015, and she returned in 2016 to complete a double major in Spanish and nursing. Five students from the University of Georgia wowed Salamanca: Chris Locher, Megan Outlaw, Joya Reasor, Andrew Regan and John Shewmaker. And one student from Kennesaw State University wowed Barcelona: Maya OmereOkundaye. Then there were the two Augusta University faculty who were wowed by the wonderful group of students: Jana Sandarg (director) and Giada Biasetti (assistant director). The wow effect describes the whole summer in Spain! After the Royal Palace, the Templo de Debod, and the Prado and Reina Sofía museums in Madrid, we toured Toledo, famous for its Roman bridges, Gothic cathedral, El Greco paintings and ancient synagogues. Segovia’s Roman aqueduct and classic castle were next, followed by a stop in front of the medieval walled city of Ávila. We arrived in Salamanca, where students settled into their homes and began practicing their Spanish at the dinner table with their Spanish host family. After a placement exam, students began classes at the University of Salamanca, Spain’s oldest and most prestigious institution (founded in 1218), one of the first three universities founded in Europe. Evenings were spent on the beautiful Plaza Mayor, listening to the “Tuna Universitaria,” a musical group dressed in medieval garb that serenades the public. This year we attended a flamenco performance in the center of the city. We also visited a small pueblo, La Alberca, and had a personal audience with the mayor! Pamplona and the Running of the Bulls were a highlight, not only because of the traditional running of people and bulls, but also for the astounding fireworks every evening, the all-night street parties with live bands, parades, vendors and food. Our grand finale was in Barcelona. The first day we visited the monuments of the famed Antonio Gaudí, including the Basilica of the Holy Family, the Casa Milá and Parque Güell. Late in the day we went to Montjuich, riding the funicular to the top of the hill, and stopping at a lookout for a breathtaking view of the harbor. The second day we traveled an hour and a half north to Figueres, to visit the Salvador Dalí museum, which is just as eccentric as Dalí himself! Students spent the rest of the time at the beach or exploring Barcelona. Leaving Spain was hard since we had grown accustomed to hearing Spanish and enjoying the lifestyle. But coming home made us treasure the summer’s experience even more, and we had new friends to remember some really fun Ávila times. Page 29
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AATSP-GA University Composition Contest This state contest is sponsored by the Georgia chapter of the American Association of Teachers of Spanish and Portuguese. Students of Jana Sandarg & Sara Griswold won. Level V Notable Emma Covington Alexandra Hale Taylor Leverett Jenny Maldonado Raysean Ricks Douglas Sloan Excellent Jacob Bonitatibus Grant Blume Selena Harris Allyssa Reburiano Superior Faith Gadson Outside Experience Excellent Justin Maher Level V Native Excellent Verónica García Hoepker Superior Ana Levy
International Scholarship Recipients Emma Covington Ariel King Selena Harris Quentina Lewis Douglas Sloan
Student Awards Phi Kappa Phi Initiates Phi Kappa Phi is a national collegiate honor society for all disciplines. This year’s Phi Kappa Phi initiates included several Spanish majors. In December 2016, Crystal Juhasz was inducted. In April 2017, Betsy Gaffney, Ana Levy, Megan Moore and Morgan Ryffé were initiated. They wear the Phi Kappa Phi medallion around their neck. Congratulations!
Crystal Juhasz
TESOL Certificate Congratulations to Edgar Salas, Spanish minor, who completed the TESOL Certificate. L-R: Ana Levy, Jana Sandarg, Betsy Gaffney and Morgan Ryffé
Megan Moore
Erin Hawk (above) gave a scholarly presentation, “The Second World War, the Conception of the Absurd and a Resolution,” at the Phi Kappa Phi Student Conference, March 8, 2017. His faculty sponsor was Dr. Giada Biasetti. Page 33
Congratulations! Liana Babayan was promoted to associate professor and awarded tenure in spring 2017. She also was named the new director of Women’s Studies at Augusta University. Yet another honor was bestowed on Dr. Babayan. She was selected as an NEH Summer Scholar from a national applicant pool to attend one of 24 seminars and institutes supported by the National Endowment for the Humanities. The Endowment is a federal agency that, each summer, supports these enrichment opportunities at colleges, universities, and cultural institutions, so that faculty can work in collaboration and study with experts in humanities disciplines. Dr. Babayan will participate in the institute entitled "Algeria, Morocco, Tunisia: The Voices of Women in Literature, Cinema and Other Arts since Independence." The 3-week program will be held at Oregon State University and directed by Joseph Krause and Nabil Boudra. The approximately 537 NEH Summer Scholars who participate in these programs of study will teach over 93,975 American students the following year. Dr. Babayan was also the recipient of the “Caught in the Act of Great Teaching,” given by the Office of Faculty Development and Teaching Excellence .
Dr. Liana Babayan
Dr. Rob Bledsoe’s big adventure this year was a new experience for him. He and Dr. Giada Biasetti took 25 students to Italy for a “Second Year Experience” during Spring break. Fortunately the weather was great—except when the group took walking tours—and everyone made it back safe and (mostly) sound. With Dr. Deborah Richardson, he published “An Innovative Teaching Award Catches Faculty in the Act of Great Teaching” in the Journal on Centers of Teaching and Learning. He, Dr. Richardson and Dr. Maynard (English and Foreign Languages) also contributed a chapter to a book on the use of historical simulations in the undergraduate curriculum. Dr. Rob Bledsoe Page 34
This academic year he has served in the Office of Faculty Development and Teaching Excellence, as well as teaching humanities and all the German classes!
Dr. Giada Biasetti, assistant professor of Spanish, served as the Chair of the Modern Languages Association Translation Studies Forum. Dr. Biasetti was responsible for organizing the guaranteed session "Rethinking the Act of Teaching Translation" for the 2017 MLA convention in Philadelphia. Dr. Biasetti’s involvement and active scholarship in this field allowed her to act as respondent and contribute to the conversation during the session, establish a closer professional relationship with the speakers and the audience, share her expertise, and represent Augusta University as a scholar and a teacher. Dr. Biasetti’s article “Benefits of an Interpretation Course in Foreign Language Learning and Development” was published in Hispania (Volume 99, Number 4, December 2016). Based on her experience of developing and teaching an introductory course on Spanish-English interpreting, the study situates and justifies translation, more specifically interpreting, as an important component for language development. In addition, it illustrates that an interpreting course is in alignment with the National Standards for Learning Languages and helps not only improve language skills and interpreting techniques but also opens minds to a new culture, improves cross-cultural and intercultural communication, strengthens public speaking skills, boosts confidence, and helps expand personal horizons. Dr. Biasetti also served as the 2016 assistant director on the Salamanca, Spain, study abroad program, as well as a director for the Second Year Experience students in Italy, during spring break 2017. This past year, Dr. Chris Botero has been quite busy. He has continued to serve as Assistant Chair of the Department of English & Foreign Languages at AU. Apart from his administrative duties, he continued to teach courses in Hispanic linguistics and teaching methodology, while also working as Program Coordinator of foreign language education programs in the College of Education. While teaching and carrying out advanced studies with his students, he also translated Slam Dunk! Home Run! A Guide to Understanding Disabilities into Spanish. The guide is an interactive comic book which is designed to help teachers and students better understand the needs of a disabled student in a physical education setting. During the fall of 2016, he helped to establish the Linguistics Certificate which will be offered through the EFL department starting in the fall of 2017. More information on the certificate can be found on the departmental website. Dr. Botero also recently joined the Georgia Department of Education World Language K-16 Advisory Committee, serving as AU’s representative. Although he will not be teaching during the summer of 2017, he will be busy continuing with his research and traveling. Page 35
Professor Sara Griswold coordinates the Tutoring Program, which provides free tutoring to foreign language students enrolled in French, German and Spanish. She continues to serve as the Portfolio Coordinator of the Foreign Language Unit, and she is an active participant in all Spanish club activities. Professor Griswold provides many cultural activities for her students and attends them all herself. This year she taught an accelerated course of Spanish 1001 and 1002, offered back to back in one semester. She continues to research student writing strategies in the foreign language. Professor Sara Griswold
Dr. Pedro Hoyos Salcedo is now in his eighth year as advisor to the Alpha Mu Gamma honor society. He has participated as Library of Congress Reader since June, 2009. He attended the Second Pre-Columbian Cultures Conference in Washington, D.C. He is working on a collection of hundred bilingual readings (English and Spanish). He also coordinated the Day of the Spanish Language at AU in April 2017. Dr. Hoyos Salcedo serves as referee for LEF-E L’Erudit franco-espagnol, www.lef-e.org an electronic journal of French and Hispanic Literatures, and has attended FLAIR Conference at AU, and 98 th Annual National AATSP Conference, Miami-Florida, as presenter. Professor Hoyos was interviewed as part of the Latino American Oral History project. Augusta University Reese Library, published: http://guides.augusta.edu/latinoaugusta Maintaining an active scholarly presence in his discipline, Hoyos Salcedo is now a national book reviewer for The Latin Americanist Journal (Journal of the Southeastern Council on Latin American Studies and Wiley Periodicals, Inc.). He published his first book review on Los niños migrantes entre Michoacán y California, in Volume 60, Issue 3, September, 2016 p. 430-432 https://www.researchgate.net/journal/1557.203X_The_Latin_Americanist Also he has served as Charter Board and Languages Committee Member for SAIL (School for Arts-Infused Learning), a charter school in Columbia County, Georgia. He also wrote SAIL-Foreign Language Section of the petition: research, rationale, and methodology for instructional model, 2016, and participated in local CERT training for Community Service. He has served as Associate Editor for Revista Internacional de la Imagen. Last but not least, Dr. Hoyos Salcedo has served as international advisor and was cited by Literaturerzeichnis-Mirja beek at Univesitat zu Koln-Wintersemester Seminar. Magischer Realismus in Cien años de soledad (Himmlisches Jerusalem oder Babylon?), 2016.
Professor Xiaoxin Zhang has been busy increasing the enrollment in the elementary and intermediate Chinese classes at Augusta University and provided many extracurricular activities involving Chinese culture for her students. Her students perform at Chinese competitions, such as Rachel Clay, and they write original articles in Chinese, such as Justin Maher. Xiaoxin has been a wonderful asset to our students, faculty and university. We wish her well as she returns to China this summer.
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Dr. E. Nicole Meyer, Professor of French and Women’s and Gender Studies, enjoyed teaching a wide variety of courses—from French 2001 to World Humanities 2002 with interdisciplinary French, Humanities and Women’s Gender Studies courses added to the mix. In addition, she presented and organized sessions at 10 international, national, regional and local conferences. Some highlights included talks on creative strategies to teaching the Francophone World, and research presentations on gender, trauma, death, ageing, and narrative approaches in a number of contemporary French and Francophone women authors as well as on professional and life stages for women faculty in Literary Studies. At Augusta University, she lectured on test-taking strategies to Family Practice residents preparing for their Boards and to nursing faculty preparing professional certificates, as well as on her Augusta University 2016-2107 Scholarship of Teaching and Learning Fellowship project on teaching Medical French. Publications include a book chapter on teaching the film “Le Hérisson.” She is looking forward to her Fall 2017 courses on French and Francophone Women Autobiographies and Intermediate French 2001. Dr. Meyer received a certificate of Achievement for completion of the Scholarship of Teaching and Learning Fellowship, completed during the academic year 2016-2017. The certificate was given by the Office of Faculty Development and Teaching Excellence at AU. In addition to an additional summer research fellowship, Dr. Meyer was awarded an International Grant to consult a special collection at University of Wisconsin-Madison libraries.
FLAIR is an academic alliance for foreign language teachers in the CSRA. Four Augusta University faculty serve on the steering committee: Dr. Liana Babayan (French), Dr. Rob Bledsoe (German), Dr. E. Nicole Meyer (French) and Dr. Jana Sandarg (Spanish). The Department of English and Foreign Languages at AU sponsors FLAIR activities. Page 37
Dr. Jana Sandarg is the advisor of Los Amigos Hispanos, the Spanish club, and the director of the Salamanca, Spain, Study Abroad Program. She serves as a steering committee member of FLAIR, the local foreign language academic alliance, publishes the FLAIR newsletter, and coordinates the annual FLAIR conference. She also serves on the AATSP-GA board as conference director, study/travel award chair, and the college composition contest director. On July 7, 2016, she attended a conference, “Innovación, tecnología y comunicación en español,” sponsored by www.smele.com and held in Salamanca. The themes dealt with teaching Spanish as a second language. Dr. Sandarg gave a presentation, “Foreign Language Experiential Learning P-12,” at the CIRCA conference, Augusta University, Jan 20, 2017. She served as a panelist of the Innovative Teaching and Experiential Learning Symposium at AU on Feb. 23, 2017. The topic she presented was “Preparing Students for Experiential Learning.” Dr. Sandarg gave a state presentation, “Building the Base for Foreign Language Programs,” at the Foreign Language Association of Georgia Conference, in Atlanta, March 3-4, 2017. Along with Carol Giardina, Erin Thoes and Candice Chinsethagid, she gave a regional presentation, “Protecting Students Studying Abroad and at our University,” at the NAFSA Bi-Regional III-VII Conference, in New Orleans, Nov 6-10, 2016. Her national presentation was “Addressing the Community Standard Through Student Interaction with Social Service Organizations,” as part of a panel, “Real World Experiences: How Vertical Networking Creates Language Success,” at the ACTFL Conference in Boston on Nov. 19, 2016. She continues to serve the department by helping Dr. Jun Zhao with the International Friendship Program and editing the spring 2017 edition of the Foreign language Notes.
Telenovelas …. Soap Operas in Spanish Jana Sandarg’s Spanish 1001 class, summer 2017, put on five soap operas in Spanish. Hollywood, here we come! Photographer: Jana Sandarg
“La fiesta loca” The girls are ready to party, but they can’t find the cups. Nathan claims he doesn’t have them, but after searching high and low, the girls find them in his backpack. He’s hidden them because…. He hates parties!
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L-R: Lauren Wallace, Nathan Boyd, Priscilla Rex Pius Vincent, Tiffanie Moore, Kiana Kelly
“La comida especial” Two young ladies request chicken at a fancy restaurant, but the chef informs the waiter that all they have is horse meat. The waiter serves the dish, trying to convince the young ladies it is delicious, but they aren’t buying it… literally!
Photo at right Top L-R: Travis Rager, Marshall Cabiness. Bottom L-R: Marquetta Thomas, Tynesha Hambrick
“Entrevistas fatales” Two supervisors are interviewing candidates for the position of pediatrician at their business. The first is just a babysitter, the next wandered in by accident looking for the bathroom, and the final one is perfect for the job…. But she demands coffee and breakfast served to her every morning. The supervisors run them all out. “No estoy muerto, L-R: Jace Poole, Kari Powell, LaKeya Williams, Ashley Maynor, Regina Ferraro sí estás muerto” Three criminals plan an “accident” to murder a rich man and get his money. Detective Sherlocksta arrives to take their statements, and they all say they aren’t interested in his money, as they list the things they intend to buy. The rich man keeps protesting “I’m not dead” and they keep telling him “yes, you are dead,” but he won’t cooperate and the detective hauls the three criminals off to jail. Connor Waldron, Amiah McGinty, Deandra Fernando, Sierra Smith, James Miller Page 39
“¿Dónde está mi teléfono?” Four students are headed to the beach, but one can’t find his telephone. He looks everywhere, even inside his shoe. The other students use their cell phones to call each other. When his phone rings, he discovers it in …. His pocket! Then they all head to the beach. At right : Jo’El Grant, Tumah Ngoh, Jamie Cato, Kylii Clay
Spanish 4600/6600 (Introduction to Spanish-English Translation) – Translation Project Students in Dr. Biasetti’s class worked on a semester-long project that included the translation into Spanish of promotional material from various departments in the Pamplin College of Arts, Humanities, and Social Sciences. The materials included brochures, flyers, websites, and Pamplin’s promotional video. For Pamplin’s promotional video, students translated the script and created subtitles in Spanish by using Final Cut. Once the subtitles were completed, DCM approved the new version of the video and requested a voice-over. Raquel Arrocha-Williams, Verónica García, and Grant Blume volunteered to do the voice-over into Spanish. The Spanish version of the video is now being officially used as promotional material. The students in Dr. Biasetti’s class that worked on the translation project include: Raquel Arrocha-Williams, Bryaunna Barrera, Jon DeGone, Betsy Gaffney, Veronica Garcia, Carol Giardina, Catalina Godoy, Carol Joseph, Ariel King, Georgia Latremouille, Taylor Leverett, Patricia Lozano, Jenny Maldonado, Megan Moore, Kenneth Perkins, Rumahidy Pumarejo, Alissa Salvador, Ashley Sill, and Theresa Sorrentino. We are all very proud of them!
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Morgan RyffĂŠ and Jana Sandarg with Christmas toys for Hispanic children
At left, a flamenco workshop given on February 20, 2017 by the Carlota Santana Flamenco group. The singer, dancers and guitarist explained flamenco dance and music — all in Spanish.
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At left and below, French club Halloween party!
Above and at right, photos from the May 2017 college reception.
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Photos on this page are of the May 2017 Pamplin College reception.
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Dr. E. Nicole Meyer giving a talk
Jack Maher and Victoria Vox perform songs in French at Augusta University
Dr. Jana Sandarg recruiting students to take foreign language courses
Above, Dr. Giada Biasetti and Dr. Chris Botero at Alpha Mu Gamma initiation in April. Page 45