Introduction

Abstract

Despite rapid globalization within contemporary society and the seemingly obvious need for the study of foreign languages (FLs) and cultures, recruitment to undergraduate FL degrees has dwindled, graduate programs have disappeared, and institutions have restructured language programs. At the same time, the FL and humanities disciplines have engaged in soul-searching exercises in an effort to understand and express a renewed sense of value for the study of FL and culture. As a result of these kinds of societal and disciplinary movements, FL programs, along with other educational sectors, are facing the increased need to engage with heretofore peripheral forces like accountability and accreditation, to express and ensure their value through outcomes assessment, and to begin to think, innovate, and behave programmatically. Key to enacting these changes systematically and effectively is heightened awareness of the importance of program evaluation, not only as a means to demonstrate how and why FL study is a valuable pursuit in today’s world but also as a process through which sound improvements can be made, participants can learn, and educational relevance can be sought. The volume provides language program directors with an overview of innovative methodologies, guidelines, and frameworks in language program evaluation and includes topics such as the integration of professional standards, university benchmarks, departmental goals, and outcomes assessment in language program evaluation. Ideas and examples emanating from the volume should equip language program directors with tools and knowledge to help innovate and otherwise transform their language programs in response to the pressing needs to do so.