Answers to Questions about Globally Speaking
Q: I don’t know the first thing about this language. Can I still take the class?
A: Yes, the class is meant exactly for people who are starting from zero, and who want to try something new. You’re the person we’re looking for.
Q: Who can participate?
A: Globally Speaking at BU is aimed primarily at undergraduates, but graduate students, faculty and staff are also welcome. Unfortunately, if you are not currently enrolled or working at BU, you won’t be able to participate.
Q: How much does it cost?
A: Nothing, zip, zilch — it’s free.
Q: Do I need to buy a textbook?
A: No textbooks are required. Any material you need will be distributed by your instructor.
Q: What should I bring?
A: Just a pen, a notebook, and an open mind. (We don’t recommend bringing an electronic device to take notes – the classes are interactive, and in this context, it works better not to have these devices. Also, you may learn a little of a new writing system, which is most easily done with pen and paper.)
Q: I don’t have much free time. Can I handle a Globally Speaking class?
A: Yes! Globally Speaking classes have no required homework or exams, and the only time you need to commit is the one 80-minute evening class each week. (In spring 2017 we’re piloting a 2x/week model for Italian, by popular request. But still no homework.)
Q: I’d have to miss a class meeting part way through. Is it still okay to sign up?
A: Yes. Globally Speaking has a “modular” design, so that even if you miss a week (or two), you should still be able to get your bearings when you come back. Of course, you make the most progress – and have the most fun – if you attend every week, so we do encourage that.
Q: I spoke this language with my parents as a child, but I never learned it formally. Can I improve my language skills (or reading and writing) with Globally Speaking?
A: No. Globally Speaking is meant for beginners. Instead, seek out a faculty member in your language to see if BU offers regular, for-credit courses aimed at heritage speakers of your language, or to discuss other suggestions.
Q: I studied this language in the past, but have forgotten a lot. Can I attend?
A: It depends, but sometimes GS is not the right choice in this situation. What you retain from your earlier study may be more than you think. Remember, GS is aimed primarily at beginners who cannot say even “hello” or “where is…?” and cannot read a single word.
Q: Can I take a Globally Speaking class as a substitute for a regular first-semester class in this language?
A: No. Globally Speaking is only a light “taster” course, meant to demystify languages (especially supposedly difficult ones) and to provide an enjoyable first look at a new language and culture. It’s the amuse-bouche, at most the appetizer. If you like it, by all means consider going on with the main course (a regular, credit-bearing course in the language)!
Q: So if I complete a Globally Speaking course and want to continue learning the language, I should enroll in a first-semester class (111 level) even though I already know some things?
A: Exactly. You’ll have a little bit of an edge and hopefully will feel more confident because of your GS course experience, but the 111 level is still the right one for you after you finish GS.
Q: Will I get a grade?
A: No grades are given in Globally Speaking, and the courses do not appear on transcripts. You get out of the classes what you put into them.
Q: This program is a great idea, but why aren’t there more languages offered?
A: We offer a changing menu of classes each semester, depending partly on faculty availability. You are welcome to drop us a line saying what language you would like to see added!
Q: Who is sponsoring these classes?
A: Globally Speaking is funded by the National Endowment for the Humanities Distinguished Teaching Professorship at Boston University, whose purpose is to enrich the life of the Humanities at BU. Professor William Waters (CAS World Languages and Literatures Dept.) conceived and implemented the program, supporting it by means of DTP funds while he held the professorship himself.
Q: Who are the instructors?
A: The instructors are Boston University faculty members who are specialists in language teaching. They are native speakers or hold PhD’s in the language, often both.
Q: Can I sign up for more than one language at a time?
A: Sure! You’re welcome to take as many Globally Speaking languages as you have time for. But don’t plan to take two classes that meet at the same time – we ask that when you come to class, you stay for the full 80-minute session as a rule. (It’s distracting for other participants if people are coming and going during the class period).
Q: Can I just sit in the back and listen?
A: That’s no fun, and it’s also not the way to learn a language! Our classes are participatory. Don’t be shy – everybody sounds ridiculous the first time they try to make new sounds, so just have a good time with it. Practice is the only way to get better.
Q: Do I need to preregister?
A: It is highly recommended that you save yourself a seat. But if you didn’t, you can still drop in as long as the class is not already at capacity.
Q: What happens if I signed up, but then decide I can’t attend the class (or can’t keep attending)?
A: Just don’t show up. We’ll miss you, but hey, maybe next time.
Didn’t see your question answered here? Feel free to email us at glblspk@bu.edu.
