Concordia Revamps French Program to Enhance Communication Skills

Concordia Continuing Education (CCE) has launched a redesigned French program, known as French Communication Essentials, which aligns with the Échelle québécoise des niveaux de compétence en français. This framework serves as Quebec’s official standard for assessing adults’ French language proficiency, focusing on skills beneficial for learning, work, and integration.

The revamped program now aims to enhance practical communication skills across five levels, from elementary to high intermediate. Previously titled French Conversation, the course is dedicated to equipping learners with language abilities that can be applied in diverse situations. Each module is structured to support participants in progressively improving their speaking and comprehension skills.

Sherry Blok, senior director of development for executive and professional programs, emphasized the program’s intent. “We wanted to make sure our courses truly meet the needs of learners looking to improve their French communication in real contexts,” she stated. By aligning the program with the Échelle québécoise and collaborating with Réussir en français at Concordia, CCE has created a curriculum that is both relevant and accessible.

Engaging Learning Environment

The French Communication Essentials program is delivered in person over a 10-week period, fostering consistent engagement among students. The classroom environment encourages collaboration, allowing for steady progression in language learning. To complement in-class sessions, participants undertake self-directed activities aimed at reinforcing their skills and preparing them for real-world communication scenarios.

This program is constructed with specific outcomes in mind. It helps learners develop the language proficiency necessary to use French comfortably in both social and professional settings. Moreover, it provides cultural insights that enable participants to connect more deeply with Quebec society. Such benefits are particularly advantageous for job seekers and individuals seeking to integrate more fully into their communities.

Support for Faculty and Staff

Concordia faculty and staff also have the opportunity to enroll in this program, reinforcing the university’s commitment to fostering a bilingual campus culture. Eligible faculty and staff may qualify for a tuition waiver, while students who have completed an undergraduate or graduate course at Concordia can enjoy a 10 percent discount on tuition.

Thanks to its alignment with the Échelle québécoise, learners can accurately assess and demonstrate their proficiency levels, a vital asset for both professional and academic advancement. The program emphasizes thematic topics that facilitate practical and applied communication, ensuring that participants not only learn to speak French but do so with confidence and purpose.

For those interested in learning more, Concordia Continuing Education is hosting a free webinar titled “From Frustration to Fluency: A New Approach to Learning French.” This initiative aims to introduce potential learners to the program’s benefits and methodologies, further enhancing its appeal.

In summary, Concordia’s updated French program represents a significant step forward in language education, designed to meet the needs of a diverse group of learners while promoting bilingualism within the community.