Chaedar Alwasilah: A Pioneer in Language Education and Cultural Preservation
When Chaedar Alwasilah graduated from Indiana University in 1991, he not only made a lasting impression on his alma mater but also earned a place among the university’s most distinguished graduates. Indeed, his remarkable academic achievements led him to receive the Profitt and Profitt Dissertation Award from Indiana University’s School of Education, marking one of many accolades he would receive throughout his career.
A Journey in Education
After spending six transformative years in the United States, Chaedar earned both his M.A. and Ph.D. from Indiana University. His academic journey, however, began in Indonesia, where he completed his Bachelor’s degree in English Education in 1979 at IKIP Bandung (now the Indonesian University of Education, or UPI). Chaedar’s commitment to advancing language education and bridging linguistic perspectives has remained steadfast throughout his career, inspiring countless students and educators.
Currently, Chaedar serves as Dean of the Faculty of Language and Literature Education (FPBS) at UPI for the 1999-2003 period. His role as Dean, though significant, represents just one part of his vast contributions to academia. For instance, he also serves as the editor for the TEFLIN Journal, where he actively shapes discourse in language education. Moreover, he has published over 200 articles in both Indonesian and English, thereby consistently sharing his insights with a wide audience. In addition to articles, he has also authored 12 books focused on linguistics, cementing his influence on the academic community.
Personal Background and Education
Chaedar’s accomplishments are deeply rooted in his personal life and family values. Born in Kersamanah, Garut, on March 30, 1953, he grew up in an environment that blended cultural and religious traditions. His family includes his spouse, Dra. Senny Suzanna Alwasilah, and their four children: Indiana Ayu Alwasilah, Autumn Windy Alwasilah, Mentari Qorina Alwasilah, and Yuzaki Adam Alwasilah.
The educational journey began at SD Ciarog, Kersamanah, where elementary education was completed in 1966. This was followed by middle school at SMPN Kurnia, also in Kersamanah, with graduation in 1969. Secondary education was then pursued at SMU Cicalengka, with completion in 1972.
For higher education, a Bachelor’s degree was earned from the Indonesian University of Education (UPI) in 1979. Following this, a Master’s degree was completed at Indiana University, USA, in 1987, leading to a Ph.D. from the same institution in 1991.
An Advocate for Language and Culture
Chaedar Alwasilah has become a frequent speaker at language teaching seminars and conferences, sharing his extensive knowledge with both national and international audiences. For example, he represented Indonesia at the MABBIM Congress in Malaysia in 1995 and presented research at the RELC Seminar in Singapore that same year. Furthermore, he was invited to serve as a reviewer at Sultan Qaboos University in Oman in 1999, an experience that broadened his global perspective. In addition, he chaired the International Conference on Sundanese Culture in 2001. His expertise is often sought by numerous institutions for consulting, including Balitbang Dikbud, ITB Language Center, and Depag.
Roots in Cultural and Religious Education
Raised in a pesantren (Islamic boarding school) environment in Kersamanah, Garut, Chaedar was deeply influenced by his father, K.H. Endin Abdul Gani, a respected religious teacher. As a result, Chaedar developed a strong sense of service and frequently engages in community outreach as a preacher. His early involvement in organizations like PII and HMI reflects his lifelong commitment to both academic and spiritual growth.
Recognition and Legacy
In 2001, Chaedar received the Distinguished Alumni Award from Indiana University, honoring his academic excellence, leadership, and innovation. This award permanently enshrines his name on the Hall of Fame wall at Indiana University, ensuring that his legacy endures within academia.
Professional Milestones
The professional career began with a role as Secretary at UPI’s Language Center from 1991 to 1992. This was followed by an appointment as Head of the English Education Department in 1994, a position held until 1995. Shortly after, the role of Vice Dean for Academic Affairs was undertaken from 1995 to 1999. Since 1997, responsibilities have included leading the English Education Graduate Program as its Head. This progression culminated in the position of Dean of FPBS at UPI, held from 1999 to 2003.
Books by Chaedar Alwasilah
Chaedar’s contributions to linguistic studies have left a profound and enduring impact, especially through his published works. His impressive repertoire includes 12 books that continue to educate, influence, and inspire students, educators, and researchers alike.
In 1985, Chaedar published “Linguistics: An Introduction”, offering foundational insights into the field, followed closely by “Sociology of Language”, which explored the intersections of language and society. His autobiographical work, “From Cicalengka to Chicago” (1994), captured his personal and academic journey, resonating deeply with readers navigating similar paths. In “Communicative Language Teaching” (1996), Chaedar addressed innovative methods for effective language instruction, while “Language Politics & Education” (1997) analyzed the intricate relationship between language policy and educational frameworks.
Expanding on the evolving landscape of language instruction in Indonesia, his 2000 publication, “Perspectives on English Education in Indonesia in the Context of Global Competition”, highlighted the challenges and strategies for competing in a globalized world. His 2001 book, “Language, Culture, and Education”, examined the profound connections between linguistic identity and educational practices. Finally, “Qualitative Essentials” (2002) provided a crucial guide for qualitative research, establishing itself as a key resource in the field.
Through these works, Chaedar has significantly shaped the study and teaching of language, leaving a legacy that endures in classrooms and academic circles both in Indonesia and internationally.
Awards and Honors
Chaedar Alwasilah career is distinguished by a series of prestigious awards and honors that underscore his exceptional contributions to the fields of language and education. In 1991, he received the Profitt & Profitt Dissertation Award from Indiana University, recognizing the remarkable quality and impact of his doctoral research. This early achievement was followed by the Exemplary Lecturer Award from Universitas Pendidikan Indonesia (UPI) in 1992, acknowledging his excellence and dedication as an educator. A decade later, in 2001, Indiana University celebrated his ongoing accomplishments and influence with the Distinguished Alumni Award, a testament to his enduring impact on language studies and his role as a global ambassador for Indonesian academia.
Chaedar Alwasilah’s legacy is a powerful testament to his dedication to advancing language education and preserving cultural heritage. His contributions continue to inspire a new generation of educators and linguists, and his work serves as a reminder of the power of language and culture in shaping society.
