Refugees Learn Dutch Online

At least 100 Syrian refugees participated in the Introduction to Dutch Massive Open Online Course in the fall of last year. Students from all over the world are able to learn Dutch through the free online Dutch course.

Introduction to Dutch MOOC        
Introduction to Dutch was developed by the University of Groningen Language Centre, and is intended for anyone who wants to learn Dutch or is planning to visit the Netherlands for work, a study programme or holidays. Participants do not need to have any prior knowledge of Dutch. The subjects covered include introducing yourself and talking about family, friends, work or studies. The course also includes short films giving a general impression of home and professional life in the Netherlands.

Students from across the world
70,000 students from 160 countries registered for the online Introduction to Dutch course in 2015. Participants come from North America, Europe, but also from countries such as Japan and Peru. Syrian and Eritrean refugees in The Netherlands also participated in the course last fall. They live in different places in The Netherlands, sometimes they live in homes, but often still in emergency shelters.

Learning Dutch
The refugees partaking in the online course have indicated that they are eager to learn Dutch. They have commented that this is the best way to learn Dutch quickly.

Via Smartphone, Tablet or Laptop
Students can participate in the course with their smartphones, tablets or laptops. The refugees in The Netherlands often use their smartphones to take part in the course.

Multiple Starting Times
The first course run in 2016 will be starting on 15 February. Introduction to Dutch will be offered four times this year. The online course was offered three times in 2015. Online registration is possible at: www.futurelearn.com/courses/dutch The online course material will also be accessible after the three-week course period.

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

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