The 264 abstracts in this compilation describe opinions and realities of the foreign language requirement in American colleges and universities. Included are surveys and statistical data on language enrollments; arguments for and against the study of foreign languages; the relationship of second language acquisition to the national interest; trends in foreign language testing and placement; trends and enrollments of significance for the language major; and the foreign language needs of students in professional and vocational schools. The research dates from 1900. Most of the abstracts reflect research reports and articles which have appeared in U.S. educational journals. A selective number of books and monographs are also included. Availability of the materials in the ERIC system is noted. (DS)