Learning a new language can open up a wealth of career and personal opportunities for you, but it can also be a significant challenge. Oakton's Language Lab can help.
The Language Lab serves the language learning and teaching needs of Oakton's Modern Languages department, students of English as a Second Language (ESL) and the general Oakton community.
You can visit the lab on either the Des Plaines or Skokie campus and find a variety of resources to help you in your language studies. At the lab, you'll be able to work with language tutors and engage in conversation to build proficiency. You'll have access to our collection of reserved textbooks, books and software, and you'll be able to get technical help in using our language training equipment.
Find more information on the services offered in the lab below.
One of the best ways to learn and master a new language is to converse in it. Conversation groups give you a chance to try out the language you're learning in a comfortable, supportive and informal environment. Language conversation groups meet for students studying French, Spanish and ESL.
To join a conversation, please view the Language Lab Calendar to find a session that works for you. Basic conversational skills in the group's language are required.
There are also a number of language clubs and activities available to assist and enhance your studies. Check out our student clubs to learn about the French Club, Japanese Club, Spanish Club and other student organizations that explore international culture and language.
If you'd like to share your first language with a fellow student studying it, you can sign up for the Language Exchange Program. You'll converse with other students in the language you're comfortable with, teaching them while getting the chance to become familiar with their language as well.
At the lab, you'll have access to the Sanako Study 1200 software system, which offers multimedia language instruction. The lab is also equipped with audiovisual equipment, allowing you to review videos and DVDs for classes. An LCD projector, screen, printer and duplicator are also available.
The lab also maintains a substantial inventory of specialized modern language software, as well as GED, TOEFL and ESL pronunciation software. Computer stations with headphones provide access to web-based audio and video and include multilingual support for Microsoft Office, email and other web tools.
Language tutoring is provided by the Learning Center. The sessions are scheduled in the Language Lab and are free to students.
You can also find a wide selection of language reference materials and magazines, as well as a vast collection of ESL audio, print and multimedia materials. Language Lab staff can help you find the materials you'll need for your classes and can assist with language learning techniques.