Webclassroom - Introduction

The Web for Language Learning

Virtual Library
                
The Web is an ideal source of authentic language texts for communicative language acquisition. There is an endless range of contemporary texts for the language learner, with primary sources such as news, reports, advertisements, interviews, reviews, articles, videostreaming of events, and streaming of radio and television programs. The virtual library is a fount of knowledge and resources, reflecting the diversity of interests and functions of the Web. The Web is well-suited for distance education and independent learning. It is not a coincidence that parallel to the continuous rapid development of information technology there is a growing market for independent learning, research, and production.

Slovenian language studies with the Web

The Slovenian Webclassroom started its first project as series of thematic topics in March 2001 to learn language through culture. It is guided by  providing immediate, stimulating and interesting contemporary Slovenian language and culture texts through the Web. The Webclassroom topics consist of varied language activities using quality web resources from and about contemporary Slovenia. Slovenian Web resources are extensive in all spheres: culture, commerce, education, entertainment, government, media, and tourism. A valuable resource for exposure to colloquial language are discussion forums from Slovenia about contemporary issues.

The units, arranged in four thematic categories, are an innovative approach to language learning by utilizing the Web as a source of authentic text material, to acquire greater reading and writing skills through the study of culture. This enables the learner to: gain understanding, and appreciation of Slovenian culture, and apply Slovenian for personal or professional communication.

Learning activities focussing on the other two main skills of speaking and listening, have yet to be included in this series of topics. This could be realised with some allocation of  e-technology resources, equipment from information technology and education bodies and further curriculum development.         

E-learning

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