BACKGROUND: The Linguistics Department has offered credit for languages not currently taught at UO for some time now. Using the expertise of its faculty, the resources of the Yamada Language Center, and talented native speaker assistants, the Self-Study program aims to provide motivated students with a unique learning opportunity. Small classes, an emphasis on communication, and specially selected materials combine for an engaging learning experience. Students are assessed on an individual basis, language progress is basically dependent on how much effort students expend (and, of course, prior knowledge.) A course description can be downloaded here (Acrobat required).

CLASS STRUCTURE: Each of the self-study sections is led by a native speaker tutor. These sessions are not typical classes per se, but rather are sessions where you have the chance to practice your speaking skills, learn new vocabulary in role-play sessions, and ask questions about your outside materials study. The native speaker is an additional resource for your study of the particular language; h/she is not your typical language teacher who will have formal lessons prepared all of the time. We strongly encourage working with a partner or tutor outside of class—see our Language Exchange and talk to your tutor about using communication tools such as the Voiceboard, YLC Message Boards and/or Amiga LiveChat.

REQUIREMENTS: There are three basic requirements for getting credit in LT 199 courses: attend class, maintain a learning portfolio, and participate in a final presentation. You can not receive credit without meeting these requirements. Expectations and procedures for doing the portfolio and the final presentation are explained here. Please don't hestitate to contact the program coordinator for more information.

INSTRUCTIONAL FEE: There is a $75.00 instructional fee for UO students taking LING 199 for credit; for all others the fee is $125.00. This program is self-supporting; your fees help pay your tutor. If you are taking the class for credit, the instructional fee will be charged to your UO student account. For everyone else, please pay the Yamada Language Center by the end of the first week of classes.

MATERIALS: For each language, YLC will acquire resource materials for your use outside of the regular class sessions. These include audio and video tapes, SCOLA foreign language news broadcasts, software, and website-based activities; a Blackboard website is used to disseminate timely information, including cultural opportunities; and a message board is used for practice and progress portfolios. Each of the classes also has a textbook, which you are advised (but not required) to purchase at the bookstore. Don't hesitate to ask the coordinators or YLC staff for help in finding these materials.