Language Centre news, events and interviews

Observant 30 May 2023

Compulsory Dutch lessons? “In Italy, they would think it very odd if foreign students didn’t speak a word of Italian”

What do UM students think about an obligation to learn Dutch?

30-05-2023 · Background

MAASTRICHT. International students in Maastricht absolutely against compulsory Dutch courses. That was the heading of a recent article on the online news forum ScienceGuide. It caused quite a stir on social media. According to UM president Rianne Letschert, there are more sides to it. Is that true?

Full article

Do you have a good passive knowledge of English but find it difficult to put that knowledge into practice? Or do you feel insecure about your English pronunciation? After the 'Effective Communication' B2 or C1 course at the Language Centre, you will be more confident. 

Interested to take the challenge? See Effective Communication for more information.

 

Are you learning Dutch and have a hard time pronouncing the tongue-twisting sounds of the Dutch language? Then put on your headphones because this podcast will have you speaking Dutch in no time!

The podcast the Language Centre participated in is created from the idea of giving participants more learning mileage in an accessible, fun way. 

Sarah Hiley

How can you ensure your research will have an impact on society? Who will benefit from the results of your research and how will you reach them? The Language Centre has been working with the PhD Platform, the Knowledge Transfer Office and several academic departments to co-create an Impact Writing Workshop. 

Stan Lommelen on the importance of building a good relationship with students

‘Strong performance starts with a strong relationship’, is a quote from a colleague who died too soon and who, like me, worked in special education. Our pupils, aged between 12 and 18, had learning and/or educational disabilities such as dyslexia, autism, ADHD or antisocial behaviour. I really enjoyed my time there. 

Suli Poell on learning Chinese

When I tell people that I am a Chinese teacher, people often say: “Chinese is a very difficult language!”  That is right, Chinese IS difficult. There are two reasons that make Chinese difficult. 

Christina Markanastasakis

The Language Centre of Maastricht University provides a range of writing courses aimed at guiding PhD and Postdoctoral candidates in becoming skilled commentators in their field of research. 

Danae Smeets, took part in the Dutch essay competition with the theme 'Scenario’s voor de toekomst’. Her essay ‘Nooit meer stil’ was nominated and only narrowly missed out on a win.

The FHML student shows that she has a challenging future vision and knows how to word this in a crisp and eloquent way.

Yvette Froeling and Ilja Schreinemakers talk about the Language Centre, the future and their views on the future of language education.