Papers & Workshops

 

Prof. Desmond Cahill and Prof. Michael Singh

RMIT University, Melbourne

After briefly describing the Australian sociopolitical and educational context in a globalizing world, the paper will outline the new international studies program at RMIT University in Australia, built upon the three constructs of (i) global-local interconnected-ness (ii) cultural and linguistic diversity and (iii) international and cross-cultural profess-ional practice. Among the features to be detailed in the presentation are the international studies major based on Appadurai's theory of cultural globalization, the four language options (languages other than English, interpreting/translating for advanced bilingual speakers, English as a second language and, lastly, the innovative English as a global language sequence) and the international work practice requirements.

Bio-Data:

Desmond Cahill is Professor of Intercultural Studies in the Department of Language and International Studies at RMIT University in Melbourne, Australia where he currently heads the international studies program. He is one of Australia's leading authorities on immigrant and intercultural education, and has conducted Australia-wide reviews for the Australian government in areas such as multicultural education and ethnic minority youth.

Michael Singh is Professor of Language and Culture, and currently heads the Department of Language and International Studies at RMIT University in Melbourne, Australia. His research interests are in postcolonialism and multiculturalism, especially the curriculum perspectives, and in the cultural and language implications of globalization, particularly in relation to local and world Englishes.
  

RMIT, Melbourne, Australia

5-9 July 2000