Improving French second language education

French as a second language education is offered in most Canadian schools, yet a large number of students do not pursue learning the nation’s second official language or do not experience great success. Nipissing University’s Dr. Callie Mady, associate professor in the Schulich School of Education, believes the challenge of learning French may not be within the language itself, but within French second language education.Here’s your chance to debunk some of the myths and ponder potential improvements to French second language education in the fourth installment of Nipissing University’s Award Winners Speaker Series, featuring Dr. Mady discussing her research. Titled Unilingualism can be cured: Improving French as a second official language programming, it takes place Tuesday, February 26, at 7 p.m. in the Harris Learning Library.
Dr. Mady believes that students need more equitable access to learn French as a second language and that there is ample room for improvement in the classroom, such as enhanced opportunities for authentic communication.  Immigrant students who are learning English, and students with learning difficulties are often excluded from learning French; Dr. Mady argues that those students in particular could benefit from French second language learning opportunities.
The presentation is free of charge and all are welcome.
The Award Winners Speakers Series was introduced this year in celebration of the university’s 20th anniversary as an independent degree granting institution. The series features Nipissing faculty who have earned a prestigious Research Achievement Award, speaking about their work.
Mark your calendars for the final presentation in this year’s Research Achievement Awards Speakers Series:
April 2, Dr. Susan Srigley, Department of Religions and Cultures.