The Diploma in Italian Online at the National University of Ireland, Galway is what you are looking for. The Diploma in Italian Online is a groundbreaking experience which, employing the latest skills in e-learning, will enable you to study a language in your own time, wherever you are, and as part of a community of e-learners. You will be introduced to the basics of the Italian language and will
develop competence in relation to the common situations of everyday life. Unlike many distance learning programmes designed for individual and totally independent learning, this diploma course is based on a collaborative, communicative approach and students are encouraged to participate in virtual class activities with their peers and e-tutor. Three on campus sessions per semester are also included, together with online conversation sessions
Borne out of active collaboration with e-learning professionals from the Università degli Studi di Palermo and Università degli Studi di Genova, the course concentrates on all four main language skills (listening, speaking, reading and writing) and uses carefully selected authentic material to provide a gradual introduction to the structures and functions of the language. In addition, a module on oral and intercultural skills will introduce aspects of Italian life from an intercultural perspective and stimulate discussions about them. The Diploma in Italian Online is open to everybody and is designed for those who have no previous knowledge of the language. It is particularly suited to those who need flexibility in their time and mode of study and/or live away from Galway. Basic computer skills are sufficient: ability to download and upload files, record and play sound files, navigate websites, use emails and Skype-style applications. An introductory on-campus session at the beginning of the course will explain in very simple terms how to use these applications and will take you through all steps necessary to become familiar with our intuitive tools. The teachers and e-tutor – including native speakers – will guide you through this interactive and participative module, which will emphasize collaborative learning in order to avoid any feelings of isolation. Lecture packages will be delivered weekly online and will include comprehension tasks, individual and group work, conversation and intercultural aspects. By the end of each semester/year you should be able to converse and comprehend a variety of topics and situations normally encountered in everyday life.
