Building Cross-Cultural Competence Through Language and Cultural Immersion with Col. John Baskerville

This episode of Inside West Point: Ideas that Impact, features an in-depth conversation with Colonel John Baskerville, head of the West Point Department of Foreign Languages, discussing the vital role of foreign language and cultural competence in military education and leader development. Baskerville highlights his extensive background in military service and foreign affairs, emphasizing the importance of the semester abroad programs, international exchanges, and the emerging challenges and innovations in teaching language.   

The discussion also covers the impact of these programs on cadet development, strategic military operations, and the broader implications for the U.S. Army's engagement in global contexts. The episode sheds light on the transformative experiences cadets undergo through language immersion, their contribution to solving real-world problems, and the strategic advantages of cultural competence in contemporary military operations.  

00:00 Meet Colonel John Baskerville: A Distinguished Military Career  

01:39 The Evolution and Impact of West Point's Foreign Language Program  

03:00 Exploring the Semester Abroad Program: Growth and Strategic Importance  

06:19 The Role of Language in Military Strategy and International Relations  

08:07 Cadet Experiences Abroad: Stories of Learning and Understanding  

13:22 Innovative Teaching and the Future of Military Education  

21:28 The Importance of Cross-Cultural Competency in Military Leadership  

31:55 Capstone Projects: Bridging Theory and Practice  

51:44 Reflections on Service and Leadership: A Personal Insight  

53:12 Rapid Fire Questions: Getting Personal with Baskerville  

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Resources:   

• West Point: Two Centuries and Beyond 

Learn more:       

• Website: https://www.westpoint.edu/academics        
• Interested in Teaching at West Point? Join us: https://bit.ly/TEACHWP     
• Learn more about the Department of Foreign Languages: Department of Foreign Languages 

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Credits:     

• Guest: Colonel John Baskerville: (https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-baskerville-033b2a5) 
•  Host: Brigadier General Shane Reeves: (http://linkedin.com/in/shane-reeves-7950a31b3)    
• Recording: West Point Public Affairs-Visual Information    
• Production: Growth Network Podcasts: (https://growthnetworkpodcasts.com)  
• Publisher: West Point Press (https://westpointpress.com)    

This episode does not imply Federal endorsement.