SXSW EDU 2025
The American Foreign Language Deficit: How To Fix It?
Description:
Americans have long lagged behind other countries in language learning, leading to global scrutiny and a sense of disconnect–if only on our summer vacation. As foreign language requirements are removed from US schools and universities, the gap widens. Shared language fosters connection, and in a divided society, could it be a solution? This panel explores the deficit, its origins, significance, and solutions. Join Julie Hansen, CEO of Babbel Amanda Montell, NYT bestselling author, and Martha Barnette and Grant Barrett, hosts of "A Way With Words," for a discussion on bridging this gap.
Related Media
Other Resources / Information
https://amandamontell.com/
https://amandamontell.com/wordslut/
A Way with Words, a fun radio show and podcast about language (waywordradio.org)
https://www.waywordradio.org/about
Takeaways
- Roots and Global Impact of the American Language Learning Gap. Learn more about its broad-reaching effects.
- Societal Effects & Priorities: Discuss the impacts of reduced language education in the US & reimagine education priorities to reintegrate languages.
- Actionable solutions: ways to prioritize language learning in the US, and equip motivated individuals with language learning tools.
Speakers
- Grant Barrett, Co-producer, A Way with Words
- Martha Barnette, co-founder, A Way with Words
- Julie Hansen, US CEO, Babbel
- Amanda Montell, Autor, Amanda Montell
Organizer
Franka Schuster, Principal Corporate Communications, Babbel
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