معرفی
Dr. Chhany Sak-Humphry is an Associate Professor in the Department of Indo-Pacific Languages and Literatures at the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa, where she serves as the Coordinator of the Khmer Language Program. She is a leading expert in Khmer language education and Cambodian linguistics, developing comprehensive language learning materials and programs for students at various proficiency levels.
Her educational background includes:
- Doctor of Philosophy in Linguistics, University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa
- Master of Arts in Linguistics, University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa
- Professional Development in Foreign Language Teaching, French, University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa
- Master of Public Health in International Health, Health Management and Administration, University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa
- Bachelor of Arts in International Studies and International Management, Whitworth College
Dr. Sak-Humphry's research focuses on Khmer language pedagogy, Cambodian linguistics, and Southeast Asian studies. She has developed specialized approaches to teaching Khmer as a foreign language, with attention to both the linguistic structure of Khmer and its cultural context. Her work addresses the challenges of teaching a non-tonal language with complex vowel distinctions to English speakers, and she has created innovative multimedia materials to support language acquisition.
Her publications demonstrate a systematic approach to Khmer language education, progressing from basic script and pronunciation through to advanced conversational skills. The materials incorporate cultural elements through folktales and real-world scenarios, providing learners with both linguistic competence and cultural understanding. Her work spans multiple learning modalities including textbooks, audio resources, and interactive digital components.
Dr. Sak-Humphry leads the Summer Abroad Program: Advanced Study of Khmer (ASK), an intensive eight-week training in Khmer language and culture held in Siem Reap and Phnom Penh, Cambodia. This program is funded by the Fulbright-Hays Group Projects Abroad (GPA) Program of the U.S. Department of Education.
Her contributions to Khmer language education include:
- Development of comprehensive Khmer language curriculum from beginner to advanced levels
- Creation of specialized materials for children learning Khmer
- Establishment of study abroad opportunities in Cambodia
- Building connections between U.S. institutions and Cambodian educational organizations
Dr. Sak-Humphry works closely with Cambodian institutions including the Center for Khmer Studies and the Royal University of Phnom Penh to promote scholarly cooperation and cultural understanding between Cambodia and the United States.
