The
New World of English Language Learning
You have got to be "global" to
excel in your profession, and achieve your goals. You have got to
know the world around you and the people within it. You have got
to be able to communicate, to learn and to share. You have got to
be able to access information through the latest information technology.
You must speak English in order to progress in this high-tech international
society that puts a premium on innovation.
According to Newsweek magazine, experts have estimated
that by the year 2000, more
than 1 billion people around the world will speak or be studying
English. That is an indication that competition in the workplace
is getting fiercer, and that you need the additional skills to have
the competitive edge. You need English to be competitive.
Intensive English Programs (IEP) are a brilliant
way to master the language, especially Schools that are endorsed
by Teachers of English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL) present
you with high educational standards. What else should you look for
when deciding on a school to study English?
Traditional methods of English Language instruction
focus on teaching English for the sake of it. Schools who use these
methods view the fact that you are not a native English speaker
as a crutch, not an opportunity.
In this system, a student who wants to attend an
American university is recommended to advance his/her general English
skills before pursuing his/her goal. For many of you, this would
appear quite logical.
Why?
The new world of English Language learning incorporates
a league of institutions that enable you to simultaneously pursue
your English and personal/professional goals.
You lose no time. You stay on track.
Through
specialized tracks, academic, business or general communication
purposes, you have the possibility to improve your English while
concentrating on one of the three tracks. You work on projects that
are of interest to you. Projects, that help you master your listening,
writing and grammar skills. You are engaged in scintillating activities
that would not be possible in your home country. You participate
extensively in the community where authentic language is utilized.
You also use computers to enhance unique experiences gained both
inside and outside of the classroom.
As your English language level improves, you are
able to continue your studies with advanced level programs. Intensive
English Programs sharpen your skills methodically to prepare you
for the challenges ahead of you. If your English language skill
is at an advanced level, you have the opportunity to take professional
level studies; these can be either university courses or professional
courses that may be attended by both international and American
students. These programs have the flexibility to combine your studies
with advanced English classes to support your professional level
courses.
Your decision is your investment for your future.
So, think B-I-G!
Further
Information:
Fatmanur (Fati) Erdogan,
Overseas Relations Coordinator International Programs,
University of California,
Santa Barbara Extension,
320 Storke Centre,
Santa Barbara,
CA 93117 - USA
Phone: 1 (805) 961-3396
Fax: 1 (805) 893-8427
E-mail: ferdogan@xlrn.ucsb.edu
Internet Site: http://www.ip.ucsb.edu
"We must be the change we wish to see in the
world. Prosperity and Progress rests upon knowledge and its useful
application. The ability to create, share and use knowledge will
determine the success or failure of organizations in the 21st century."
Author: Fatmanur Erdogan, Manager - Overseas
Relations Department International Programs, University of California,
Santa Barbara
This article first appeared in Studying Abroad magazine
