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b'Language Matters\\n\\nA Conversation with Dr. Kathleen Stein-Smith, Distinguished Lecturer and Author\\n\\nwith Dr. Debbie Barnard\\n\\nWhat is the state of foreign language training in the United States? We wanted to know so we asked TNWAC Advisory Board Member and Tennessee Tech University Associate Professor of French, Debbie Barnard to talk to Dr. Kathleen Stein-Smith, noted authority and advocate on the subject and author of, \\u201cMulti-lingualism as a Global Competency: Skills for a 21st Century World.\\u201d\\n\\nThe answer? About twenty percent of students in America are studying or learning a language according to Stein-Smith who says, \\u201cThat\\u2019s very concerning,\\u201d adding, \\u201cThat would mean a lot of Americans remain mono-lingual. Speaking only English. Understanding only English.\\n\\nThe number reflects a decline in foreign language education. Stein-Smith says the decline isn\\u2019t attributable to educators who she says are \\u201cdedicated and professional,\\u201d but rather to the lack of opportunity. \\u201cForeign language programs have decreased in number significantly in our middle schools and most dramatically in our public schools,\\u201d she said, \\u201cThe figures are really frightening.\\u201d'