Analysis of Language Instruction in Advisor Training
Abstract
In 2013, CAOCL and MCSCG initiated a qualitative study with a stated research objective to "find out what cultural knowledge is useful or leads to mission success during deployment." As part of this effort, I observed MCSCG's "Global Training and Advising Course," conducted semi-structured interviews with Marines (during the advisor course, while on deployment, and upon return from deployment,) and had occasional written communication with Marines while on deployment. During this time, I observed some language classes taught by CAOCL instructors, as well as three CERTEXs, where Marines interacted with role players who spoke a foreign language and some practiced their language skills. One theme that emerged from these observations and interviews was about language acquisition and instruction and the corresponding culture specific instruction. Not every team in this report received language training, most teams received different levels of language training, and more than half did not participate in a CERTEX; but taken as a whole, there is sufficient data from my observations, interviews, and informal emails with Marines to merit a mini-report on language training.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Aug 27, 2014
- Accession Number
- AD1085749
Entities
People
- Kristin Post