May 6th, 2020, (SAN DIEGO, CA) – Challenging times call for extraordinary efforts. That’s why the English Language Academy (ELA) team here at the University of San Diego is transitioning our onsite programming to an innovative remote learning format that safeguards the well-being of our students and staff while continuing to provide life-changing academic opportunities for our global family of students.
The University of San Diego has a long history of successfully providing quality remote learning opportunities, and this experience and support is instrumental in helping us ensure our students’ personal and academic success during the COVID-19 public health crisis. Throughout this transition and beyond, we are continuing to emphasize the one-on-one personal and academic support that is an essential feature of our English Language Academy programs.
All classes are being taught online via Zoom, with an emphasis on communicative activities. Instructors are using eBooks, online teaching software and Google Docs, as well as Virtual Whiteboard and Breakout Room functionality available on the Zoom platform. Together, these technologies enable us to create a highly interactive online classroom environment. Instructors are successfully teaching virtual classes that involve all students in class discussions, pair work and group work.
With our new virtual model, we are also committed to sustaining and nurturing the family-like atmosphere that is an essential part of what has made our English language programs so successful for so many years. Our student services advisor has set up a weekly hour-long “ELA Zoom Café,” which provides students with the opportunity to chat, laugh and connect with each other outside the online classroom environment.
In addition, we are in regular email and telephone contact with students to check on their progress and overall well-being. ELA team members are also reaching out to students overseas who have traveled back to their home countries and have not been able to return to the United States. Our team is working to ensure that everyone has the most up-to-date information regarding the Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP), F-1 Visas, study requirements, and travel updates.
Finally, to protect the safety of our students, teachers and staff, the ELA has made the difficult decision to cancel the 2020 Summer International Junior Program, but we look forward to welcoming students to the program in summer 2021.
“All of us at the English Language Academy will continue our efforts to offer the safest, most rigorous educational experience possible,” said Francine Chemnick, Director of International Programs. “While these are trying times, we are committed to ensuring that our students still receive the highest quality education and can return to the university when it is safe to do so.”
Interested in our programs? Visit USD’s English Language Academy to learn more!