Language learning
NCHU's Language Center engaged in collaborative discussions with our new Extension Language Learning program and its upcoming STARTALK Grant plans. The meeting included NCHU Director Dr. Shih, USU Coordinator Mrs. Chen, Extension Coordinator Mrs. Walker, and iPACE Director Dr. Wang.
USU's brand-new Extension Language Program has successfully secured a prestigious federal grant from the National Security Agency called STARTALK, amounting to an impressive $372K. This grant will support the implementation of intensive learning camps.
(Click to read the press release)
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Utah State University Extension Receives Prestigious STARTALK Grant
LOGAN, Utah — May 26, 2023 — Utah State University (USU) is proud to announce that its Extension Language Learning Program has been awarded a STARTALK grant by the National Security Agency, a remarkable accomplishment marking the first time a Utah institution has ever received such a grant.
STARTALK is a competitive federal grant program designed to fund innovative language learning initiatives for K-16 students, furthering national capacity in critical need foreign languages. The USU program, led by Program Director Simon Wang and Program Coordinator Peiru Chen, successfully secured an impressive $372K grant to further its language and cultural immersion activities.
"This grant signifies a turning point for Utah's K-16 students," said Wang. "Our program is dedicated to offering a learner-centered environment for students to immerse themselves in foreign languages and cultures, especially Mandarin Chinese. The funding will enable us to provide a residential camp, along with online pre-camp and post-camp instruction and support, at no cost to students, promoting greater access to language learning in the state."
The USU Extension Language Program caters to K-12 students with a background in target languages, including dual immersion students and heritage students. It currently offers courses in Spanish, French, Chinese, and Japanese, with an emphasis on fostering environmental awareness and responsibility in alignment with 4-H goals and the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals.
The "Unlock Mandarin: A STARTALK Summer Program," proposed under the grant, is an ambitious two-week residential camp complemented by online pre-camp and post-camp instruction. The camp aims to immerse students in real-life Mandarin Chinese language and culture through authentic multimedia and technology, a first for Utah.
"The STARTALK grant is a testament to the diligence and dedication of our team," says Peiru Chen, the program coordinator. "This program offers Utah students an incredible opportunity to enrich their understanding of other cultures and languages, especially Mandarin Chinese. It empowers them with valuable skills that will benefit them throughout their lives."
The USU team is thrilled with this achievement, which heralds a bright future for language learning in the state. The Extension Language Program is looking forward to continuing its work to provide innovative, engaging, and impactful learning experiences for Utah's youth.
For further information about the STARTALK program at USU, please contact:
- Peiru Chen, Program Coordinator: peiru.chen@usu.edu
- Simon Wang, Program Director: simon.wang@usu.edu
Mandarin class activities in Salt Lake City, Utah are part of the USU Extension Language Learning Program. Your support and donation will foster the development of more Mandarin-speaking future leaders!