In a recent commentary in the Chronicle of Higher Education (March 6, 2009, A33), Professor Brockmann (professor of German at Carnegie Mellon University) pointed out that the study of foreign languages should not be a zero-sum game.His commentary is a response to the University of Southern California’s plan to eliminate the German Department to usher in studies of Eastern Asian … [Read more...] about German and/or Chinese?
language
Be aware of the danger of a foreign language
When one deals with a foreign language, there is always a chance to produce (sometimes hilarious) errors. This blog has cautioned readers against the danger of relying on automated translation services. Now it seems consulting with a human expert does not necessarily guard one from embarrassment either. … [Read more...] about Be aware of the danger of a foreign language
Translation error
The danger of relying on automated translation (and why Fool's Mountain is better): … [Read more...] about Translation error
Beijing's sensitivity to people with disabilities received sensitively
I was alerted by the China Hearsay to a story titled "Disabled groups outraged by Beijing snub," at the Times. It reported the indignation expressed by some to an official guide for volunteers at the Beijing Olympic Games in August and the Paralympics in September. “I’m stunned,” said Simone Aspis, a parliamentary campaigner at the UK Disabled People’s Council. “It’s not just … [Read more...] about Beijing's sensitivity to people with disabilities received sensitively