Rider to Offer Rock-Solid Language Learning Program
Whether you want to brush up on your Spanish skills, or are planning a trip to France and want to become familiar with the language, a new initiative at Rider University can make it happen.
Beginning April 1, RosettaStone, the language-learning software that helps users learn up to 30 different languages, will be available to all Rider students, faculty and staff with EasyPass access on the Library portal and a number of secondary links on the University’s Web site. Since RosettaStone is Web-based, users can pursue their language lessons from anywhere they have Internet access. Rider will become New Jersey’s first institution of higher education to offer free access to the software campuswide. The Office of Information Technology will fund the annual license.
“We chose RosettaStone because it is the preeminent language-learning software product,” said Linda Materna, director of International Programs. “We are providing 5,000 users access to the company’s 30-plus languages as a commitment to helping our Rider community become global citizens and leaders.”
A kickoff event to introduce the program will also be held on April 1 in the Bart Luedeke Center Cavalla Room, beginning at 11:30 a.m. A RosettaStone representative will hold a presentation from 11:45 a.m. to noon, as well as from 2:30 to 2:45 and 5:15 to 5:30 p.m. Laptops will be available for people to try the software, and refreshments will be served.
The software combines advanced technology with native speakers, real-life images and voice recording, allowing one to gain listening, speaking, reading and writing skills at all levels, explained Materna.
The software’s uses are limitless. International students and faculty members can improve their English while faculty members can require students to complete various levels for classes or travel abroad. Staff members can also learn a new language at their convenience and at a pace that suits them.
“RosettaStone will not replace any language requirements,” Materna said. “It can be used as a supplement but not a substitute.”
For more information, please contact the Office of International Programs at (609) 896 - 5000 x7717.
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