Welcome to Laurentian University Language Training Program Website.

Created in 1992 and delivered under the authority of the Vice-President, Academic (Francophone Affairs), this program directly fulfills the University’s mission and official policy on bilingualism. As stated, the University’s mission as follows:

“Laurentian University is a Sudbury-based bilingual and tricultural institution whose mission is to foster the development of Northern Ontario, including the development of Native and Francophone communities in the region, and uphold in principle and in practice the use of both French and English as official languages.”

In 2006, the Board of Governors updated the University’s official policy on bilingualism summarized as follows:

“... the bilingualism constitutes in itself a cultural value, and that in some disciplines and programs it is an important condition of academic excellence. The bilingualism constitutes also an educational value, since it allows for the development of an educational and living environment that fosters exchange and the development of mutual respect between the two official language groups. The bilingual character of the University is expressed in the bilingualism of its programs, its central administration, its general services, the internal administration of its faculties and schools, its teaching staff, its support staff and its student population.”

In short, the University’s mission and official policy on bilingualism form the backdrop to the Language Training Program. It is specifically designed to improve communication between language groups and help users meet second language competency requirements by providing quality language training services. As part of her mandate, the Language Training Officer is committed to helping all staff members required to meet receptive or functional language requirements.

Definitions

Receptive bilingualism means active knowledge of one of the official languages and passive comprehension in its oral and written form of the other official language.

Functional bilingualism means active knowledge of both official languages.

Eligibility for the Language Training Program

The French as a Second Language training program is open to any of the following persons:

• Full and part-time University staff members
• Staff members for whom receptive or functional bilingualism is a requirement for tenure
• Students enrolled in a doctorate program
• Post-doctorate students

Course Levels

Beginner I                  

This course, which focuses on the recognition and orthography of French sounds, words as well as basic formal and casual expressions, is designed for those with very little or no prior second language training.

Beginner II                 

This course is meant for learners who can understand and answer simple questions using already acquired vocabulary.

Intermediate I            

This course is designed to take learners further up the formal and informal language interaction sphere by enabling them to understand and communicate various pieces of information and facts relating to their work and everyday life.

Intermediate II           

This course is geared to learners who feel comfortable expressing themselves in everyday situations and wish to vary their discourse.

Advanced                  

This course is for learners who wish to further develop their language competency, as well as overall understanding of various issues, and fine-tune near-native language reflexes. 

Retention                   

This course, which is designed to maintain second language proficiency, both written and oral, extends participants ability to analyze documents of various types (official, technical, general interest or academic).

Placement Test      

To register for a French as a Second Language course, candidates must take a placement test designed to assess their language skills and language training needs. During the initial telephone contact, candidates will be interviewed and provided with additional information on the placement test. Please call Josette Voyer at 675-1151, Ext. 4107.

Length of French as a Second Language Training Program (FSL)

French as a Second Language courses will run for 27 weeks, beginning at the end of September and ending the first week in May. Language capability assessment will be done during the last week of the course (between April 28 and May 2, 2008). Over the past few years, classes have been held on Mondays and Wednesdays or Tuesdays and Thursdays, from 8:30 to 10:00 a.m. or from 11:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. or again from 1:30 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. However, to better accommodate course participants, class schedule could vary. Those who wish to enroll should fill in the schedule of availability and submit it with their registration form.

Second Language Training Assessment and Attestation

All second language course participants determine whether or not they wish to receive a language training attestation.

To receive a language training attestation, one must:

-           sign a language training agreement;

-           regularly attend classes (actual hours of training will be recorded);

-           take a midterm test in December; and

-           take a final exam in May.

In addition, for course participants who prefer not to be evaluated, only class attendance will be recorded and kept, and under these conditions, no second language training attestation will be issued.

Privacy

Given the confidential nature of second language training files, only the course registrant can disclose the content of his or her language training attestation to interested persons (for example when applying for tenure or an administrative position). Likewise, no information regarding a course participant will be disclosed unless he or she formally requests same, in writing, to the Language Training Officer.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why should I take a placement test when I know my second language skills are limited?

Adult learners often underestimate their language skills. Taking the placement test enables them to appropriately define their learner profile and avoid frustrations. Additionally, the placement test helps identify the skills to focus on and develop, thereby saving time.

Are the midterm test and final exam compulsory?

No, not at all! As adult learners, you are in control of your language training program and objectives. However, if you choose not to be evaluated and later request an attestation, the Language Training Officer will not be able to oblige.