TexasCHLforum.com

Wow, I'm gone for 8 months and lo and behold a thread picks right back up where I left off!!!

Charles L. Cotton wrote:

ScottDLS wrote:

Charles L. Cotton wrote:I think it only makes sense to learn the language of the country where you are going to live. I also don't like the cost to the government of printing things in two languages. These comments are not a matter of prejudice but practicality.

That said, I think having CHL classes available in different languages is an excellent idea. Learning something as important as the use of deadly force (and other subjects in the CHL class) will always be easier in your native language and your knowledge retention will be better. It's one thing to become functional in a second language, but becoming truly fluent can take years. If the immigrant happens to be elderly, then the task of learning in a second language is even harder.

As Steve said, this is a great niche market for people fluent in other languages!

Chas.

Do you know if the written test must be administered in English? I was thinking that would be the hardest part for someone less than fluent.

I've never heard anything in instructor classes about requiring testing in English.

Chas.

I wasn't sure either, but doesn't the TXDPS supply the actual test questions? Are instructors free to translate them as long as you maintain the integrity of the test? I was kind of under the impression that the DPS gave a standard written test that had to be administered and passed by the student. I've taken 4 classes now since '96 and the instructor just handed out what seemed to be the same standard written test to everyone, then either personally graded them or had us swap and grade. I do remember people being told that you couldn't talk to you "neighbor" for answers during the test either, so I thought that might preclude a translator. I am actually curious for the education of myself and the readers of the thread.

Thanks,

Scott

jframe.38 wrote:This is the second post in a little over a month that could be construed as insulting to someone looking for, or someone trying to assist someone trying to get a CHL.
...

No it isn't. I've read every comment on this thread. It's not insulting to suggest that it's tough to make do in the USA without a basic knowledge of English, any more than it is to say it would be kind of tough to live/work long term in Mexico without speaking passable Spanish. Numerous people suggested ideas for translators, multi-language instruction, etc. Even the TXDPS says it's important to teach certain basic English phrases. I'm not sure if multi-language versions of the written test are allowed. No one seems to know... however it IS a requirement to pass a written test to get a CHL. So unless a foreign language version, or the help of a translator is allowed, it's going to be very difficult to pass.

If I move to Paris and decide to be an attorney, I'm not going to go around demanding the French version of their Bar exam (equivalent) in English, or even that they accept my US credentials. If I really want to drive in Texas, but can't afford the insurance and license/testing fees... I'm not going to go looking to see if I can get by w/ a Guatemalan driver's license, and no liability.

People bust my chops if they think one of my positions is wrong. Unless someone's making an ad hominem or personal attack, I can't be offended by strong opinions. (You can, but I won't agree with you).

I've started a few threads that didn't really go where I'd hoped, but I don't demand the mods lock the thread.... take my marbles and go home. I could, but I won't.

Charles L. Cotton wrote:I think it only makes sense to learn the language of the country where you are going to live. I also don't like the cost to the government of printing things in two languages. These comments are not a matter of prejudice but practicality.

That said, I think having CHL classes available in different languages is an excellent idea. Learning something as important as the use of deadly force (and other subjects in the CHL class) will always be easier in your native language and your knowledge retention will be better. It's one thing to become functional in a second language, but becoming truly fluent can take years. If the immigrant happens to be elderly, then the task of learning in a second language is even harder.

As Steve said, this is a great niche market for people fluent in other languages!

Chas.

Do you know if the written test must be administered in English? I was thinking that would be the hardest part for someone less than fluent.

Doesn't the written test have to be in English? I'm thinking it's going to be pretty hard to pass without a basic knowledge of English.