Upon successful completion of programs in the Department of World Languages and Cultural Studies at St. Bonaventure University:

Graduates will have developed the four skills of language learning. Specifically, they:

• will be able to understand native speech in the target language;
• will be able to speak and be understood in the target language;
• will be able to read in the target language;
• will be able to write in the target language.

• will be able to elaborate on the political and historical aspects as studied in their chosen works of literature;
• will be able to discuss the culture of the countries studied.

• will be able to read and understand major works and authors.
• will be able to elaborate on the different genres — narrative, poetry, theater.

Competency in a foreign language is one of the hallmarks of the liberally educated person. It allows the individual to communicate with people of foreign countries on their own terms and to gain firsthand, authentic knowledge of foreign cultures by allowing entrance into their world of expression and thought.

The study of another language not only opens up a foreign culture for students and gives them an acquaintance with an unfamiliar set of language conventions and forms; it also provides a contrast against which their own cultural and linguistic conventions can be perceived and better understood.  

We live in an age in which the effective interaction with foreign nations is essential not only for economic prosperity, but also for mutual survival. Consequently, it is very important that students gain the skills and knowledge necessary to deal successfully with nations of differing cultural heritages.

The study of foreign language is a crucial step toward the establishment of positive lines of communication among the world’s nations.

Undergraduate broad learning goals

1. Basic knowledge of the liberal arts and sciences, specialized knowledge in a particular area of study, and the ability to integrate knowledge from different academic disciplines. 
2. The ability to think constructively, critically, and creatively, including competencies in analytic inquiry, quantitative literacy, information literacy, evidential reasoning, and problem solving.
3. Competence in multimodal communication with special emphasis on oral, written, and digital communication, including an understanding of key issues relating to their use.
4. A disposition to understand societal issues, seek solutions, and become responsible citizens.
5. An ability to engage with ultimate questions of a metaphysical, theological, and philosophical nature.
6. A basic understanding of the Catholic tradition and an appreciation of the intellectual and moral virtues expressed in the Franciscan movement (e.g., humility, compassion, justice with peace, love of wisdom, and the inherent goodness of all creation).

Departmental Goals

Goal 1. Students will develop the four skills of language learning.

Objectives:

1. Students will be able to understand native speech in the target language.
2. Students will be able to speak and be understood in the target language.
3. Students will be able to read in the target language.
4. Students will be able to write in the target language.

Goal 2. Students will develop an understanding of culture and an appreciation of differences.

Objectives:

1. Students will know the geography of areas where the target language is spoken.
2. Students will know the political structures of the countries where the target language is spoken.
3. Students will know the history of the countries where the target language is spoken.
4. Students will be familiar with the CULTURE of the areas where the target language is spoken – e.g. Art, Literature, Music.
5. Students will be familiar with the culture and customs of the areas where the target language is spoken.

Goal 3. Students will have knowledge of the literature of countries where the target language is spoken.

Objectives:

1. Students will read and understand major works and authors.
2. Students will be aware of historical and cultural perspectives.
3. Students will know the different genres – narrative, poetry, theater.
4. Students will have an understanding of literary criticism and techniques.      
   

Goal 4. Students will enjoy preparation sufficient to allow them to actively participate in their chosen field as graduates of the Department of World Languages and Cultural Studies at St. Bonaventure University.

Objectives:

1. Students will be able to pass the Comprehensive Departmental Exam, which will include grammar review, culture and literature.
2. Students will have the opportunity to become members of Sigma Delta Pi and Pi Delta Phi. As members of those honor societies they will initiate campus and community service events.