The Language Centre at Saint Mary’s University
For many, going to a new country to live and learn a new language can be daunting. For students at the Saint Mary’s University Language Centre, it’s just the start of a new semester. With the initiation of physical distancing as a result of COVID-19, the Language Centre has expanded an existing program to promote virtual social activities for students learning English.
“While many of our students have returned home, we do have students staying here in Halifax, and it’s important that we continue to engage with them and support them during this challenging time,” says Matthew Beal, the Student Programs Coordinator at the Saint Mary’s University Language Centre. “We’ve constantly been touching base with students, virtually, sharing online resources and at-home activity suggestions, like exercise videos, mindfulness meditations, virtual museum tours and more.”
Before the university move to virtual operation, suspending in-person classes and activities, the centre was working on growing an English conversation program called The Talk Project. This program connects SMU student volunteers with language centre student participants through informal networking and discussion groups. The program allows SMU student volunteers to earn Co-Curricular Record Credits and provides language centre students with an opportunity to practice their English conversation skills.
“In just three short months, this program had grown exponentially as our most popular student activity,” remarks Beal. “It’s been so successful that we decided to ramp it up right now to make sure our students are only physically distancing themselves but still engaging socially.”
The Talk Project 2.0 is a group video-chat format using the Zoom cloud meetings application. TLC students have the chance to connect with each other, and with SMU student volunteers, in small video-chat groups. The idea is to maintain socialization from a distance through stimulating discussions and the sharing of experiences.
“We feel this program is an invaluable resource right now, as the maintenance of social relationships is so crucial to human wellbeing,” adds Beal. “Moreover, we always want to help students bridge the gap between their in-class academic English studies and the practical use of language competency in the real world.”