UWI's Department of Modern Languages and Literatures gets a louder voice

THE DEPARTMENT of Modern Languages and Literatures at the University of the West Indies, Mona, has taken an unprecedented step to reposition foreign languages within the institution.

Dr Paulette Ramsay, head of the department, told The Gleaner that the repositioning has two facets.

"We were too low-keyed as a department, given the nature of what we do. We do languages, study cultures, and so we should have some dynamism, vibrance," said Ramsay.

Consequently, the department has hosted public lectures, a Modern Language Day, which is an exposition of the languages. Ramsay said the department also engages creative and technological teaching methodologies to make the languages exciting and interactive in order to maintain students' interest.

The more significant element of the repositioning is the opportunity for all students, regardless of faculty, to pursue at least a three credit modern language course at their level of competence for the upcoming school year.

They can opt for Chinese (Mandarin), French, Japanese, Portuguese or Spanish. Additionally, Ramsay said under the repositioning, students can choose a foreign language in place of a foundation course.

Foundation courses are mandatory subjects geared at exposing students to disciplines outside their realm of studies. In the past, the possibility of students doing a foreign language alongside other studies was inhibited by timetable clashes and credit allocations, but those issues have been resolved by the university.

Ramsay said she is encouraged by the support received from UWI's principal, Professor Gordon Shirley, faculties and the Cave Hill and St Augustine campuses.

She sought to encourage students to become more sensitised with the global market and realise that the mastery of a foreign language is a critical asset.

The head of department said a number of educational opportunities are available, including student exchange and teaching programmes, scholarships to various non-English speaking territories and employment.

The department will embark on a public relations campaign, starting with this week's orientation sessions, to heighten students' awareness of this prospect.

- Brian Walker