Changing Perspectives on International Education - Tapa dura

More than forty years ago, recognising that higher education would have to take responsibility for educating Americans about other world cultures and societies, the U.S. government passed the National Defense Education Act (later known as the Higher Education Act). Title VI of this act has provided extensive support for foreign languages and area studies development in the nation's universities and colleges. As a result, millions of Americans have been able to acquire knowledge about other parts of the world.Today, there are new issues, demands, and perspectives. Americans are more likely than ever before to encounter different cultures, business practices, histories, ideologies, and ways of living. In addition, the United States is increasingly called upon to intervene or mediate in regional and local crises far beyond its borders. U.S. educational institutions must continue to help citizens to have informed opinions about complex international problems. This anthology is designed to be used by a range of administrators and planners in U.S. education. It covers the field of international studies as it has developed in the United States, from its beginnings and accomplishments under Title VI to the current paradigmatic shifts taking place in research, teaching, and outreach. A major section is devoted to internationalizing the curriculum of K-12 schools. It concludes with a look at future trends and how these may affect international scholarship and training in the new century. An extensive bibliography of international resources is also included.

Patrick O'Meara is Dean for International Programs and Professor of Political Science and Public and Environmental Affairs at Indiana University. Howard D. Mehlinger is Professor Emeritus of Education at Indiana University. Roxana Ma Newman is Assistant Dean for International Programs at Indiana University.