Introduction to Dutch MOOC wins European Language Label 2015

The European Language Label prizes were awarded on Friday 6 November 2015 at the Levende Talen National Study Day in Utrecht. The Language MOOC Introduction to Dutch by the University of Groningen Language Centre won second prize, and a cash prize of € 2,000.

European Language Label

The European Language Label is a European prize that encourages innovative language projects. It is awarded annually in each participating country. The label rewards the use of new techniques in language teaching, the spread of knowledge and the promotion of good practices. The Language MOOC Introduction to Dutch was nominated alongside seven other innovative language projects.

‘This online course, or MOOC, has a strong and highly rated collaborative learning component. Learning Dutch helps the participants integrate and participate in society.’ (From the jury report)

Introduction to Dutch

Introduction to Dutch has already helped about 68,000 people worldwide learn Dutch. The course began for the third time on 2 November 2015. This time more than 19,000 learners registered. The success of this online language course was a pleasant surprise for its developers (Birgit Lijmbach, Margriet Hidding and Jeroen van Engen). ‘We never expected such numbers, but are pleased that there is so much interest in Dutch and this innovative form of language teaching.’ The next course will start on 15 February 2016 (registration has already started).

Online language course leading to A1

Introduction to Dutch is the first online language course on FutureLearn (www.futurelearn.com). In the three-week course, participants acquire a basic vocabulary of about 500 words. By the end, they have come some way towards level A1 in the Common European Framework of Reference. The use of grammar videos, dialogue videos, audio clips, quizzes, Quizlet and Soundcloud ensures that all skills are covered.

Contact Information

Language Centre
Telephone: +31 (0)50 3635802
E-mail: talencentrum rug.nl

Contact person
Margriet Hidding
E-mail: m.y.hidding rug.nl