--- Forwarded Message from Kirk Anderson <[log in to unmask]> --- >In-Reply-To: <[log in to unmask]> >References: <[log in to unmask]> >Date: Wed, 25 Apr 2001 10:53:08 -0400 >To: Language Learning and Technology International Information Forum <[log in to unmask]> >From: Kirk Anderson <[log in to unmask]> >Subject: Re: #6083 changes to the Language Lab ------------------ > >Members of the University have a proposal forward to the >administration requesting that the mandatory lab hour be >abolished and that instead the lab becomes used as an >individual study resource room instead. I think this describes very accurately the fate of many language labs in U.S. colleges and universities during the past 20 years. My opinion is that it was a big mistake: it has eroded the importance of language labs and consequently the effectiveness of language programs. However, those who work in institutions whose students demonstrate an exceptional level of motivation for language study would probably offer a different perspective. You may well see your language lab become a place where students come to check their e-mail, or don't come at all. Kirk Anderson Dept of French Studies Wheaton College MA USA