Global Khmer

Global Khmer

Develop a Certificate in Khmer Language for Heritage Speakers in coordination with UCB/UCLA Khmer Language Consortium

Long Beach has the largest number of Khmer-speakers in the U.S. and CSULB has a vibrant Asian and Asian Studies Department (AAAS) with Khmer-speaking faculty and a large number (over 600) of Khmer Heritage Speakers.  Yet, there is a low level of Khmer language training at CSULB. To address this gap CSULB will join the UCB/UCLA in a Khmer Language Consortium that offers intensive language classes in intermediate and advanced Khmer.  CSULB is well-placed to contribute to its own student development and to the consortium through field-specific language development. Specifically, AAAS will create a 3-unit summer course A/ST 490: Medical and health-related intercultural practicum in Cambodia.

Given the concurrent strengths in Khmer-speaking students and Nursing, AAAS, the School of Nursing, and the Center for International Education will work together to create a partnership with the Khmer Medical School and CSULB students.  This faculty-led study abroad course creates an opportunity for students in a technical field with limited international travel opportunity as part of their coursework. It will also be open to students who are interested in exploring global issues in health and welfare, through participating in a range of hands-on learning and teaching experiences in Cambodia. In addition, Dr. Yamada, Chair of AAAS and a Cambodia Scholar, will work with a colleague in Cambodia to produce and publish a compendium of contemporary Khmer medical terms and phrases at the end of this project for Khmer heritage language learner use.