ABSTRACT
The past 10 years have witnessed a significant rise in interest among American students in studying foreign languages. Enrollments in most foreign language classes, including Arabic, are up (Welles 2004) and participation in study abroad programs is increasing (Open Doors, 2004). This growing interest has been further facilitated by the information revolution, which has dramatically augmented opportunities and tools for global communication. Despite these positive developments, much work remains to be done if we are to improve communications and relations between the United States and the Arabic-speaking world. The events of recent years underscore the critical need to build bridges between Americans and the peoples of the Arab world.
