Biography

“It is better to ask some questions than to know all the answers.”  James Thurber

All my life, I’ve been fascinated with language and how it is learned, constructed, acquired, and used. Perhaps the fact that I grew up learning two languages at once (Estonian and English) contributed to my curiosity.  I don’t know. But whatever the reason, I find learning about language and teaching students to learn English, to understand its structure, and how to use it to be greatly satisfying.  It thrills me to be learning myself through observing my students as they learn.

I’m privileged to teach classes in both the Department of English (Modern English Grammar and Phonetics and Phonology) and the Center for Intensive English Programs. My particular interest is teaching English pronunciation to second language learners.  I’ve found that having spent many years studying and teaching vocal music – with its inherent study of the diction of the languages being sung -- has been an added bonus in this pursuit.  My multi-cultural background and experience also has prepared me for my present work.  I was born in England to Estonian parents; grew up in British Columbia, Canada; am married to an immigrant from Norway; and have spent considerable time traveling and living in five continents. 

My husband, Oystein, is an anthropologist who has broadened my cultural horizons and exposed me to the people and cultures of the Middle East and Scandinavia. As parents of three sons, one daughter-in-law, and a grandson, we treasure time with our family and hiking together.  My favorite leisure activities include gardening, traditional handwork, and water-color painting

Current Research or Professional Activities

Kim, Julia and Asta Sakala LaBianca, “Ethics in Academic Writing Help for International Students in Higher Education: Perceptions of Faculty and Students” – paper presented at Andrews University Teaching and Learning Conference, March 30, 2017.