Describes area studies as a product of the federal government's decision to provide needed resources beginning with World War II. Defines the elements within area studies as degree of specialization, factual knowledge, in-country experience, and language competency. Notes area studies research is loosely related to public policymaking. (NL)

Reviews the state of South Asian studies in American universities. Focuses on language instruction, a trend toward specialization in particular countries or regions, and the decline of popular interest in South Asia. Reports on the need for new funding to replace the Federal Program, PL 480, whose excess currency fund of rupees is almost…

The history of Title VI of the Higher Education Act, having to do with language education and area studies, is chronicled by an educator closely involved in development of the legislation. The review focuses on four themes that have received the most attention: debates, largely outside the field, on whether to continue federal funding for Title…

This report presents results of a three-year review and evaluation of American college and university programs in Latin American, Eastern European, Middle Eastern, African, and Asian studies. Information was gathered through site visits; interviews of students, faculty, department chairmen, and administrators; and attendance at area association…

The report resulting from a federally mandated year-long study of the status of foreign language and area studies in United States higher education concentrates on the present capacities of the nation's universities for advanced training and research in those fields. A preamble outlines the history of language and area studies in this country,…