About the DepartmentDepartment of Modern Languages, Literatures, and Cultures

Introduction

The language of a people is the most ubiquitous component of its culture. We view culture in the broad, sociological sense of the word (not simply in the narrow sense of Literatures and the fine arts) and attempt, at all levels, to develop in our students an understanding of as many aspects of the foreign culture and civilization as possible, in conjunction with training in listening comprehension, speaking, reading, and writing. This emphasis on proficiency in the skills is carried into the Literatures courses, which are conducted in the target language to ensure that graduates will be well prepared whatever their career decision may be.

Language Course Requirements Course Catalog Faculty and Staff

Goals

The Department of Modern Languages, Literatures and Cultures sets goals that reflect the commonalties as well as the divergences between the different language sections. The goals of the department are consonant with its own mission statement, and can be identified within the College mission statement, since the department plays a vital role in the fulfillment of the college's mission of education.

Vision

The Gustavus Adolphus College Department of Modern Languages, Literatures and Cultures (MLC) seeks to inculcate in students, at beginning and advanced levels, the ability to use language to both appreciate other cultures and to negotiate the complexities of an increasingly intercultural world. The department's vision places particular emphasis on the teaching of culture in all its forms: seeking to instill the idea that while the understanding of language has practical benefits, the study of literary and cultural traditions in a broad context will bring further rewards. The tradition of social justice is an important one, and we incorporate it into our courses, whenever appropriate, at home and abroad. As a Modern Languages department in a state that is rapidly becoming more international, both culturally and economically, the Department aims to develop citizens with a sophisticated understanding of intercultural communication.

Philosophy

The MLLC Department's philosophy is to help students prepare for an interconnected world by promoting intercultural competence through language learning, Literatures study, and cultural education. We use diverse teaching methods, including technology, study abroad, and service learning, with the goal of emphasizing the importance of language in the study of culture and lifelong learning.

Statement on Equity

The Department of Modern Languages, Literatures, and Cultures at Gustavus Adolphus Colleges publicly expresses its commitment to combat systemic inequalities and to support those at a higher risk of being exposed to such precarities. View our full statement.