Independent School Educators' List (ISED-L): Re: Language Lab

Thursday, April 8, 2010

Re: Language Lab

Hi, Renee!

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We are in the process of upgrading our language lab, a very successful
component of our language program. Since implementing the lab a decade+
ago, all of our students place into advanced language study in college.
The practice they get in the safety of a lab situation has made all the
difference.

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With the upgrade, we have looked at both Sanako and Sony. The former is
our current system and has given us some headaches; it doesn't appear to
meet our teachers' requirements. We are more impressed by Sony's
features as demonstrated by a represented from SANS.

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See below for reponses to your questions, and please feel free to
contact me if you would like a copy of the language department's lab
upgrade criteria.

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-C.D.

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Carole Duff

Curriculum and Technology Specialist

Notre Dame Preparatory School

410-825-6202 ext. 1022

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________________________________

From: A forum for independent school educators on behalf of Renee Ramig
Sent: Wed 3/31/2010 7:54 PM
To: ISED-L@LISTSERV.SYR.EDU
Subject: Language Lab

Hi Everyone,

I know I have asked a similar question before, but I would love replies
to the following if you have time:

1. Do you have a language lab at your school? Yes
If yes
2. What system are you using? Sanako
3. Is it totally software based, or does it also have hardware
components? Both
4. Is it used in high school, middle school, or both? Both
5. On average, how many days per week does each language teacher use
it? The lab scheduled almost constantly; often two classes at the same
time.
6. Was content purchased with the system, or do the teachers create all
their content? The teachers use their own and textbook supplements.
7. How is it used - supplement to a regular class, independent study,
as a class, other? This is a regular component of class.
8. Does the language lab have the traditional cubical type setup with
dividers separating students, or some other configuration? Cubical
9. How long have you had the setup? Over 10 years
10. Do the teachers seem happy with it? Yes, but look forward to the
upgrade and hopefully fewer glitches.
11. Is the language lab used only for language lab or is it a multiple
use lab? Because of the demand for use in the language department, the
lab is not often used for other purposes - only occasionally if the lab
is open, ex. after school or during exams.