Why Language Learning is Important at Chico State: It’s about Humility and Empathy

Dr. Tony Waters
Sociology Department
CSU, Chico

Language programs at Chico State are declining. Language teachers have been laid off due to higher-priority programs. Other Universities and CSUs require a semester of foreign language—but CSU, Chico does not. Dr. Tony Waters, professor of Sociology at CSU, Chico, and coordinator of International Forum addresses the lack of a second-language requirement at CSU, Chico by focusing often-overlooked side-effects of learning another language: increased humility and empathy.

How is it that learning a new language can increase these skills? How might we leverage humility and empathy to become better leaders, businesspeople, and teachers? What can we do as students, instructors, and members of the community to bridge understanding between different languages and cultures on campus and in our cities? Dr. Waters hosts this fascinating segment looking at diversity, understanding, and multiculturalism both in his topic and a Q&A session.

Recorded: May 8, 2018