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Introduction

In the age of globalization, the way that foreign languages are taught must be responsive to the realities of the 21st century. On a daily basis we have information at our fingertips from countries all over the world and multimedia has given us increasing opportunities to actively engage with people in other languages.

In the age of globalization, the way that foreign languages are taught The significance of international communication for academic research is being increasingly recognized and it is becoming particularly important for Japanese students to equip themselves with the ability to function in a foreign language.

In the age of globalization, the way that foreign languages are taught In order to accomplish this, what is required is not just functional proficiency in linguistic skills, but indeed the ability to communicate inter-culturally, based on an extensive knowledge of other worldviews.

In response to these needs, in October 2003 Kobe University established the School of Languages and Communication (SOLAC), which aims to plan, manage, and put into practice all aspects of the university’s foreign language educational programs, including research into designated languages and support for international academic exchange and student overseas study tours.

SOLAC aims to...

1. Plan and put into practice language education programs suited to Kobe University students.
2. Provide learning environments which fulfill the additional needs of students who aspire to study foreign languages
3. Conduct research into foreign language pedagogy and the linguistic and cultural backgrounds of languages offered in the university's programs.

Supporting Foreign Language Study

CALL Rooms

SOLAC has been establishing and maintaining computer-assisted language learning laboratories to enhance autonomous learning.

External Exams

SOLAC provides students with information and assistance in applying for language proficiency tests such as TOEFL and TOEIC.

Study Tours

SOLAC plans and administers short-term student study abroad tours during spring and summer vacations, including programs based at;

• University of Melbourne, Australia
• University of Washington, USA
• Beijing University of Foreign Languages, China
• Catholic University of Lyon, France
• University of Graz, Austria.
• Griffith University, Australia

The Language HUB

The Language HUB is an exciting new communication space at Kobe University which provides all students and staff with the opportunity to drop in and speak freely with international teaching assistants in more than five different languages. In addition, the HUB provides facilities such as video-linkups for distance learning, computer-based e-learning and an extensive selection of DVD’s and books to encourage students to use other languages for pleasure. The HUB is the site for regular functions that allow students to experience languages other than those they have selected for academic study. Its staff also provides students with information on overseas study and advice on language learning. Students regularly use the HUB as both a self-access function center and as a point of contact that allows them to make use of languages other than Japanese for actual communicative purposes.

Research Divisions

Curriculum Division

Multimedia Division

Materials Development Division

Academic Exchange Division

Job Openings

There are no job openings at the moment.

Contact Information

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