Fairfield University and The Rassias Foundation at Dartmouth College offer Weekend Immersion Programs in French, Italian and Spanish

Fairfield University and The Rassias Foundation at Dartmouth College offer Weekend Immersion Programs in French, Italian and Spanish

University College at Fairfield University and The Rassias Foundation at Dartmouth College invite you to kick your second language skills up a notch through an intensive weekend of engagement with French, Italian or Spanish.

Once again, the schools will offer their popular Weekend Immersion Programs (WIPs) for advanced beginners and intermediate level speakers in any of the three languages offered. The programs will take place at Fairfield University and will run from Friday, March 31, through Monday, April 2. Another series of WIPs is scheduled for October 20 through 22.

The WIPs use the "Rassias Method" for language teaching and the Dartmouth Intensive Language Model (DILM), which were adapted to the needs of Fairfield University by Joel Goldfield, Ph.D., associate professor of modern languages and literatures at Fairfield, in 1998. Conceived by Prof. John Rassias, the "Rassias Method" is a way to develop proficiency in another language through the use of physical demonstrations and frequent guided speaking. The method was developed for training Peace Corps volunteers in the early 1960s and adapted to college level instruction in 1967. The approach is a combination of dramatic techniques, rhythmic drills, and energetic reinforcement strategies.

"Your language learning will thrive on the good humor and energy of the Rassias Method," Dr. Goldfield said. "If you want to reinforce and improve your language skills but have limited time, the WIP is the perfect program for you! In just three days you will learn more and noticeably improve your ability to speak the language."

The aim of the Rassias Method is to make the student feel comfortable and natural with the language in as short a time as possible. This is achieved through a series of specific teaching procedures and techniques that:

Tuition for the program is $400 plus a non-refundable $100 registration fee due at registration. A $10 materials fee is also due at registration. Full payment is due 10 days prior to class. Lunches with staff are mandatory and included in the cost of the program. Breakfast, dinner and transportation to and from Fairfield are not provided. The registration deadline for the spring WIPs is March 24. A phone interview is required. For more information, call University College at (203) 254-4000, ext. 2688. Prospective participants interested in WIPs for Brazilian Portuguese, Chinese, German, Japanese and Russian should inquire with University College.

University College at Fairfield University is the gateway for individuals seeking undergraduate and graduate degrees as well as professional certificate programs, study abroad and personal enrichment opportunities. With an emphasis on quality, convenience and flexibility, University College offers a wide variety of evening, day, online and weekend programs taught by a distinguished faculty. University College offers an enriching personal and powerful educational experience that is backed by the resources and reputation of a great Jesuit university. For program information e-mail gradadmis@mail.fairfield.edu or visit www.fairfield.edu or call (203) 254-4184.

Posted On: 02-15-2006 10:02 AM

Volume: 38 Number: 166