Language lab offers students tutoring, study space

For anyone wanting to learn a language, whether they are enrolled in that language course or not, one of the resources available on campus is the Modern Languages and Cultures Lab. Some of its amenities include free tutoring, homework assistance, access to a library of books, media and advanced software to Georgia College students, faculty, and staff.

“In 2010 we had more than 2,500 students in one semester,” said Aurora Castillo, the Director of the MLC lab. “They go for class or tutoring or lab hours.”

 

Located in rooms 271 and 273 of the Arts & Sciences, the MLC Lab is separated into a computer lab and tutoring room. Room 271 serves as a computer lab for instructors to teach with the aid of special software programs or a space that offers self-study tools. The three software programs are Sanako Study 1200, Auralog Tell Me More, and Transparent Language.

Room 273 serves as a space for one-on-one practice with any of the 14 student tutors, 11 of whom are volunteers.

“I find the tutors more effective than anything else,” said junior Spanish minor Matt Houser, who uses the lab two to three times a week. “Because its one-on-one and you get to use the language in a real-life situation.”

Junior Caphale Coombs, a French tutor who is currently studying at the sixth level of French, emphasized the relaxed environment in the language lab.

“There’s not as much pressure because we’re students as well,” Coombs said. “But there’s also someone behind us to make sure we’re accurate.”

The language lab provides many invaluable resources, from helpful student volunteers to several nationally used software programs that help students efficiently learn a second language.

“These days (knowing another language) is less of a plus for a job and more of a job requirement,” said Lab Coordinator Josh Everett. “It is only going to be beneficial.”

The MLC Lab is open from 8 a.m. until 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except during university holidays. Tutoring is also available through the lab when classes are in session.