ESL/EAL Teachers Conference on Campus tomorrow
The University of Winnipeg is proud to host the annual conference held by TEAM (Teaching English as a Second Language to Adults of Manitoba) this Friday May 29th. Teachers from UWinnipeg’s own English Language Program will be in attendance, along with their colleagues from across the province, to hear about the latest practices in English as an additional language education.
“Many people have the impression that it’s difficult for adults to learn new languages, but we know from experience that all adults are capable of improving their English-language skills, and what teachers do in the classroom can end up having a major impact on their lives in Canada,” says Terena Caryk, coordinator, UWinnipeg’s English for Specific Purposes. “Just like the language itself, how we teach English is a dynamic process, and this conference is a great opportunity for teachers to discover new, effective methods they can use.”
The conference will include sessions on a range of topics, everything from how mobile apps can be used in the classroom to how to help newcomer students find the best supports for life outside the classroom. People interested in participating can register on site Friday morning. For more information on the conference, visit http://manitobateam.weebly.com/registration.html.
The University of Winnipeg is home to several different programs for EAL learners, including short intensive programs geared to students from abroad, and longer-term programs suitable for newcomers who are settling in Canada permanently. You can find out more by visiting http://www.uwinnipeg.ca/elp.
STUDENT SUCCESS STORY: YAN WEI LIU
Yan Wei Liu came into UWinnipeg’s English for Specific Purposes Program unsure of how to reach her goal of earning her undergraduate degree. Coming from a small town in China where post-secondary education was out of reach, she was experiencing frustration as she attempted to gain acceptance into university, as well as a lack of confidence.
Enrolling in the English for Specific Purposes changed that, and after her first course was completed Liu progressed to an Academic Writing course in the ESP program, which helped her meet the language requirement for degree studies. She is now on her way to obtaining her Bachelor of Arts.
“I learned more than knowledge itself from the program, as well as how to be a useful individual to the society and how to get alone with people who came from different cultures, religions, and backgrounds,” said Liu. “I could not imagine how to handle the courses without attending the program. I still have long way to go, the only thing what I can do in return is study harder and do not give up.”
MEDIA CONTACT
Megan Benedictson, Communications Officer, The University of Winnipeg
P: 204.988.7129, E: me.benedictson@uwinnipeg.ca
