SPAN 4470: Spanish in the USA

3 Credit Hours

This course explores the linguistic, cultural, and social impact of Spanish within the United States. This course examines the historical roots of Spanish in the U.S., its role in diverse communities, and its influence on American culture and identity. Students will analyze language policies, bilingualism, and the challenges faced by Spanish-speaking populations. The course fosters critical understanding of the evolving role of Spanish in contemporary U.S. society.

Notes: This course is taught in English.

Course Learning Outcomes
Students who successfully complete this course will be able to:

Understand the historical roots of the Spanish language in the United States and its development over time.
Analyze the demographic trends and geographic distribution of Spanish-speaking populations in the U.S.
Evaluate language policies related to bilingual education and the debates surrounding language use in schools.
Identify and describe regional variations and dialects of Spanish as spoken in different parts of the United States.
Examine the role of Spanish in U.S. media, politics, and business, and its influence on American culture.
Discuss the challenges faced by Spanish-speaking communities, including language barriers and issues of discrimination.
Assess the impact of Spanish on individual and collective identity within Hispanic communities in the U.S.
Predict future trends in the use and status of Spanish in the United States, considering globalization and technological advancements.