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FSI Develops
Strategic Language
Learning Plan
More than ever, the effectiveness of our work is tied to the
ability to use a foreign language to carry out U.S. foreign policy.
Our ability to use advanced foreign language skills will
increase the likelihood that America can better understand
others and communicate our own perspectives more cogently
and persuasively. So FSI developed the Language
Continuum in coordination with the Bureau of Human
Resources, the regional bureaus and other divisions of the
Department.
The program was unveiled Jan. 26 by Director Katherine
Peterson and Language School Dean Michael Lemmon and
presented to Under Secretary Grant Green at the Shultz
Center. The document is available on the OpenNet at
http://fsi.state.gov/courses/continua.
The Language Continuum is not just about formal training;
rather, it’s a strategic plan designed to help Foreign
Service officers, specialists and eligible family members plan
a career-long integrated approach to language learning and
use. The Continuum describes the opportunities and options
available for training, self-development and assignments
geared toward acquiring, maintaining and improving language
skills.
Some of these options include a new approach to post language
programs, innovative distance learning programs and
expanded use of overseas field schools for the most difficult
20 STATE MAGAZINE
BY ILDIKO COSSICH AND CHRISTINA HOFFMAN
languages. In partnership with regional bureaus, posts and
the Bureau of Human Resources, FSI is working to increase
“Beyond 3” immer-
sion training at
institutions overseas
and make available
targeted media
skills training,
beginning with a
very successful pilot
program at
FSI/Tunis that will
help us provide an
American perspective
in Arabic-language
media.
The following
chart depicts potential
training opportunities
for employ-
ELIGIBLE FAMILY MEMBERS
• Basic course
• (FAST course)
• Regional immersions
• Field school training
• Learning style diagnosis
• Learning consultations
• Post language program
• Guided self-study
• Distance language learning
• Out & About in [city]
• Multimedia and traditional
self-study
ees at the entry, mid and senior levels and for eligible family
members as well. Some of the courses appear under all three
levels since employees may start learning a new language at
any stage of their career. However, some training opportunities
are typically tied to a certain career level.