Early exposure to another language produces a long-term and intrinsic desire in children to learn other languages. Humboldt State University language students use their skills in French, German, Japanese and Spanish to assist Language Instructors in preparing and presenting curriculum to children between the ages of eight and ten. This is an excellent opportunity for the HSU students to serve the community. We select approximately five HSU students per language. The entire course is devoted to Service Learning through language learning and teaching.
Students earn three credit units per semester for their involvement in the course.
Grades are determined by the HSU Supervising Faculty member, Consultants, and Language Instructors in consultation with the HSU students. Any English speaker who has attempted to teach English to a non-speaker knows that simply being a native speaker of a language does not necessarily mean that one can effectively teach the language. Appropriate teaching methodology is vital to the success of second language acquisition. The Academy ensures quality instruction by explaining and demonstrating second language teaching methodology to HSU Teaching Assistants.