November 25, 2003

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The number of students studying foreign languages at Oakton Community College rose 12 percent in the last five years, reflecting a similar increase shown in a new national study. Released earlier this month, the Modern Language Association report shows that 1.4 million students took a foreign language course at a U.S. college or university last fall, the highest number ever recorded and a 17.9 percent increase over 1998 figures.

"This trend reflects the impact of our shrinking global society," says Marguerite Solari, chair of Oakton's modern languages program. "If we are to promote a better understanding of the world, students must be encouraged to explore the languages and customs of different lands."

More than 500 Oakton students currently take courses in Arabic, French, German, Hebrew, Italian, Japanese, Korean, Polish, Russian, and Spanish. Through a distance learning agreement with College of Lake County, students also may study Mandarin Chinese. Instructors utilize workbooks, audiotapes, video, Web sites, and CD-ROM-based computer study modules.

For most language studies, beginning language classes are only offered during the fall semester. Spring semester classes generally require the first semester prerequisite or equivalency, with approval from the instructor. Courses are scheduled at both the Des Plaines and Skokie campuses, with a variety of day, evening, weekend, and media-based options available.

For more information, contact Dr. Solari at 847-376-7012, or solari@oakton.edu.

Media Contact: Bill Paige (847) 635-1806

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