The Eastern Language Centre staff collaborates with faculty at multiple universities to design programs, update course content to meet the highest quality standards for language coursework, and adapt the program according to prior and current student feedback. The ELC ensures that the institutional needs of the clients are met regarding coursework, contact hours, grades, and evaluations. The ELC develops individualized programs in step with clients, ensuring that learners’ language objectives, time requirements and budgetary constraints are accounted for in the scope of the program. Learners are always welcome to communicate with staff if they need to change specific accommodations should circumstances change.
Culture Learning
Learners spend half a day on an excursion intended to teach them how cultural values form the basis of behavior patterns in Nigeria. This excursion is led by a local resource person who will help clients identify and understand core Nigerian values, as well as the ways these values manifest in social behavior. The workshop concludes with an authentic Nigerian meal around a bowl shared among participants practicing local eating etiquette.
Building Cultural Competency
ELC supplements clients’ continuous learning and exposure to their new environment through a series of workshops and exercises. These sessions provide learners with the opportunity to explore and deepen their understanding of their environment and integrate experiences in and outside of the classroom. At the ELC, we consider a holistic cultural experience to be at the core of the language immersion program.
Travel Logistics
Pre-departure
The Eastern Language Centre can help learners prepare for their trip. We provide support in writing letters of invitation and answering other travel questions that learners may have.
Arrival: The Centre arranges to meet learners outside the baggage claim, escort them safely from the airport to a private bus, and drive them to a group residence or host family where they will stay for the duration of the course. The Eastern Language Centre can also arrange transportation for departures. Students cover the costs of travel, food and lodging, as well as tuition.