Fairfield University offers Rassias Language Method workshop for teachers December 5-6

Fairfield University offers Rassias Language Method workshop for teachers December 5-6

University College at Fairfield University in cooperation with The Rassias Center at Dartmouth College offers a two-day workshop for teachers of The Rassias Method® on Friday, Dec. 5 and Saturday, Dec. 6 from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Participants may take advantage of the 1.4 Continuing Educational Units (CEUs) that are available.

Dr. Joel Goldfield, Academic Director of the Rassias Institute for Language and Cultural Studies at Fairfield University, joins Professor John Rassias, developer of the nominal teaching method and the William R. Kenan Professor of French and Italian at Dartmouth College, as faculty for this teacher-oriented two-day workshop.

Professor Rassias developed a dynamic method for teaching languages while training Peace Corps volunteers in the early 1960's and adapted it to Dartmouth College's undergraduate instruction in 1967. The aim of The Rassias Method® is to make the student feel comfortable and natural with a foreign language in as short a period of time as possible.

Participants learn and use over 30 techniques. The teaching strategies employed focus on a dynamic and inclusive learning environment. Learners are encouraged to interact using the language with the spontaneity of expression. That immediacy, which is sparked in exchanges, reduces the learners' natural self-consciousness and lessens fear of mistakes through a shift of focus from restrained production of language to the freedom crucial to communication. In addition, there is an emphasis on the relevance of language and culture to students' own lives and experiences. This context serves to personalize language through behavioral dynamics.

The fee is $400, which includes two-days of lunches and refreshments, and enrollment is limited. The registration deadline is Friday, Nov. 21 and early registration is encouraged. Groups are especially requested to enroll as early as possible.

For more information contact the website at http://www.faculty.fairfield.edu/jgoldfield/RMW08.htm. To register, contact University College at (203) 254-4307 or e-mail Jane Aquino at jaquino@mail.fairfield.edu .

Posted On: 11-07-2008 10:11 AM

Volume: 41 Number: 125