The Netherlands may be a small country but across the world, there is still significant interest in learning our language. Over 250,000 people have taken part in the free Introduction to Dutch MOOC offered by the Language Centre at the University of Groningen, and the number continues to rise.

The participants come from all corners of the globe, and have various reasons for following the course. Some participants want to learn the language as a hobby, others because they are going to move here, others to prepare for visiting the Netherlands on holiday, and yet others because they have Dutch family members. Individuals currently residing in asylum centres are also happy to have been able to follow the course. It has given them the opportunity to start learning Dutch already.

Through a good combination of all sorts of exercises, participants learn the basic principles of Dutch in just three weeks. Topics such as introducing yourself and describing your family, friends, work, or studies, are addressed in the course. In addition to being an introduction to Dutch, the course also introduces participants to the University of Groningen, the city of Groningen, and the region.

The MOOC meets a great need and transcends borders: it unites participants from various countries and with different backgrounds. A cause for celebration for the teachers at the Language Centre, and here’s to reaching 300,000 participants!

The Introduction to Dutch MOOC offered by the Language Centre began again on 15 November. Registration is still open. Are you interested? Join in!