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Language Instruction The instruction in Southeast Asian languages at the University of Michigan focuses on four major languages that are taught each term in the Department of Asian Languages and Cultures- Filipino, Indonesian, Thai, and Vietnamese. Non-heritage and heritage students, graduate and undergraduate students are all welcome to enroll in these Southeast Asian languages and more. The instruction at the university extends beyond the four major languages. Tutorials have been offered for Javanese and Kawi/ Old Javanese, Batak and Burmese, Khmer, and Ilokano. The university also offers multiple years of instruction in other world languages relevant for study of Southeast Asia, including Dutch, French, Spanish, Chinese, Sanskrit, and Arabic. For graduate students preparing for fieldwork in Southeast Asian languages not normally taught at the university, the university provides tutorials for three hours/week in these languages using locally available native speakers supervised by our tenured faculty member. Levels of Language Instruction The levels of the four major languages vary. Indonesian is regularly offered at four levels: elementary, intermediate, advanced, and a fourth-year course that encompasses literary and cultural topics. Vietnamese, Thai, and Filipino are regularly offered at three levels: elementary, intermediate, and advanced. Tutorials in advanced reading of Filipino, Vietnamese, and Thai may also be arranged. Courses Taught in Southeast Asian Languages Advanced Southeast Asian language and literature courses are normally offered in the vernaculars. In addition, those students (both at the graduate and undergraduate level) who have achieved sufficient language proficiency frequently use primary Southeast Asian language materials to conduct research for class papers in courses across a range of disciplines—from music and comparative literature to history, anthropology, political science and public health. Helpful links and resources Summer Language Institute Language Resource Center Study
Abroad Opportunities through the UM Office of International Programs International Center The center is committed to promoting a broader and deeper understanding of Southeast Asia and its peoples, cultures, and historiesby providing resources for faculty, students and the community to learn and disseminate knowledge about the region. |