Mellon-NWLC

The primary goals of the NWLC are:

To strengthen student learning of languages on the four campuses:
Student learning improves through increased contact with the language, use of a greater number of authentic materials from the target culture, and use of self-paced and multimedia materials which allows adaptation to individual learning patterns and needs. Out-of-class learning is enhanced by availability of enriched materials and by increased interactive student contact through links with other campuses and students abroad. Increased learning results from cost-effective use of time in and out of the classroom.
To strengthen teaching in the languages:
A creative review of pedagogy is occasioned and supported by the available resources in technology and the workshops and technical support. Not only do specific materials and technologies lead to a reevaluation of teaching methodologies, but new uses of class time and new opportunities for collaborative learning also become possible through the consortium. Model materials created in the consortium may well be adapted by faculty in other parts of the curriculum.
To create the framework for ongoing inter-institutional collaboration:
The consortial structure is important because of the opportunities it provides for collaborative development and shared use of resources; for shared information on implementation and effectiveness of specific materials; and for the extended community provided in each of the languages. The increased contact and collaboration give opportunity for the production of shared classroom-ready materials and for joint publications or presentations, adding to our efficient use of resources and expanded awareness of pedagogical innovation.