Course structure
The Language Center offers different types of courses, see here
Their structure (see information on the relevant pages) consists of:
- group modules with a teacher
- periods in the Multimedia Centre for Personalised Learning (EMA) for some modules
- private study
Group modules
The modules take place in a relaxed atmosphere where everyone participates actively. This both promotes language learning and stimulates self-expression.
The modules focus on communication and help learners to use the language in different contexts and for different purposes (speaking, understanding, reading, writing). The modules focus also on cultural and intercultural aspects as well as on the acquisition of autonomous learning skills.
A wide range of interesting up-to-date methods and activities are used, including discussions, listening tasks, role-plays, visuals, games, videos, and reflection on the learning process.
Multimedia Centre for Personalised Learning (EMA)
Language learning in the Multimedia Centre for Personalised Learning (EMA) forms an integral part of the Integral Skills module from Beginners to B2 (except for Chinese), and a few other specific modules.
The EMA allows you to work at your own pace and choose which aspects of the language you wish to develop, according to your objectives, interest and weaknesses.
In the multimedia room or online, someone will help you with different aspects of your personal work, such as:
- how the equipment works
- how to find suitable material
- how to work
- how to do language activities
In addition, the virtual workspace (PlurieL), allows you to access online comments about your Learning journal, in which you record your progress.
You can use the Multimedia Centre either:
by registering online: choose a slot (one supervised by a teacher of the language you are studying or, if this is not possible, a teacher of another language. The teacher will offer help, advice and feedback. Registration will also guarantee you access
NEW! Periods in the Accompagnied Multimedia Centre (i.e., those requiring registration) will be bimodal; you will be able to attend either on-site in our multimedia room (ANT 1060), or remotely by videoconference, through our PlurieL learning Platform.
via free access:
- On-site (ANT-1060): choose a slot in the free-access timetable (see the Language Centre home-page for details) and work for as long as you wish. These sections are not supervised by a language teacher.
- Remote access: at any time, through our PlurieL learning platform (see also the information under Independent Learning)
Personal study
In order to make your language learning as effective as possible and make real progress, you must also work on your own (outside of the classroom and the EMA).
Type of courses
Centre de langues courses are only for members of the UNIL community
(other categories allowed)
Learning a language requires a considerable investment in time and effort, both inside and outside the classroom. Before registering for a module, make sure that you have sufficient time to do the work required. Remember that if you are placed in a group, you are expected to attend the module on a regular basis and to follow it from start to finish.
The “Specific Skills” modules develop specific competences in language and communication, to enable learners to participate more effectively in academic, professional or social situations.
The objectives of the “integrated skills” modules are to enable participants :
- to begin to learn a new language
- to develop existing skills and make them more specific
These modules are largely based on communication. They aim to develop skills which will enable learners to use the language for various reasons in a variety of contexts. These modules also aim to develop cultural and intercultural aspects as well as the ability to learn independently.
Modules preparing students for external international exams (Cambridge English, Goethe, etc.) help students pass exams for academic mobility and future professional objectives.
They focus on listening, reading, speaking and writing.
Intensive courses allow you to improve your general communication skills in a short period of time. A wide range of stimulating activities will help you to improve your listening, speaking, reading and writing skills. These include discussions, listening exercises, role-plays, games, watching videos and reflecting on your learning.
Guided independent learning with a tutor allows you to pursue your language learning without joining a class and by studying autonomously. This module allows you to focus on your specific needs. You will be working both in the Multimedia Centre and at home. A language teacher will give you regular guidance and advice.
The PlurieL platform in the Multimedia Centre offers all the information, learning material and support you need: it will allow you to locate activities and organise your study.
To allow you to learn a language without joining a module, the Language Centre encourages you to use our PlurieL learning platform and benefit from resources specially designed for autonomous language study. If places are available you may also use the resources of our multimedia room (1060 Anthropole).
The way the Multimedia Centre and our platform are organised will allow you to locate activities corresponding to your level and needs, and provide you with information and tools to help you manage your learning.
Someone will always be on hand to help you understand how the Multimedia Centre works and show you how to access material.