Two new language acquisition software packages for isiZulu and Setswana have been launched by the Centre for Text Technology (CTexT) at North-West University, Potchefstroom Campus.  These multimedia software programmes will enable a learner to acquire the basics of a new language in roundabout 45 hours, including the vocabulary and listening, speaking, writing and reading skill in the target language, all in the comfort of his/her own home or office

Ngenani! (isiZulu) and Tsenang! (Setswana) derive their names from the Dutch concept on which they are based, Instap, which means “step in”.  Prof Marlene Verhoef, director of the Language Directorate at the North-West University and project leader, attained the rights to adapt the existing concept and technology to create these two South African counterparts. These innovative products were developed over a period of four years by well-experienced lecturers and researchers at the North-West University.

Each programme consists of four chapters, each comprising 5-6 lessons.  Lessons cover not only vocabulary, grammar, and communication skills, but also offer insight into the culture of the particular language community. Continuous evaluation ensures that the learner’s progress is measured, and the necessary feedback is provided. 

The products have already attained great success, both in South Africa and abroad.  A panel of curriculum developers of the North West Department of Education evaluated the Setswana programme in terms of its usefulness for educational purposes and appreciated its applicability to promote multilingualism on tertiary and secondary level. The programmes have also been benchmarked against international standards and norms concerning software products for the teaching and learning of languages (known as QUILTNETWORK  - QUality In Language Teaching/Learning).  According to these international standards, that assess the quality principles of design, implementation and outcomes, Tsenang and Ngenani scored an average of 80%. 

Not only young learners and teachers will benefit from using these programmes, but also adult learners from the mining sector, banking sector, medical practitioners and many other businesses. Prof Annette Combrink, campus rector at the North-West University, notes: “Managers and executives should see this as an opportunity to develop new language skills for better service to employees and clients, fostering a culture of multilingualism in the business world and the workplace in general”.

The Instap range will expand in 2005, when work on Sesotho sa Leboa, Sesotho, and isiXhosa commences. The packages for these languages are set to be ready for release by the end of 2005, with the rest of the official South African languages to follow after that.

For more information or enquiries, send an e-mail to info@bowline.co.za, phone 0800 203 048 or send a fax to 0800 203 218.

From left: dr Sarel Venter (lecturer: isiZulu), prof Annette Combrink (Campus rector), prof Marlene Verhoef ( director: Language Directorate), dr Rigardt Pretorius (lecturer: Setswana) and ms Ansu Berg (lecturer: Setswana)