In the educational system of modern Turkmenistan, advanced approaches to learning foreign languages are being introduced at all levels of education; and methods of teaching are being improved.
Private companies make their contribution to the development of the country’s educational system. A vivid example to that is Dalchyn Private Enterprise that provides services in language teaching, theory and practice of translation.
To implement modern approaches to learning foreign languages, Dalchyn Private Enterprise has signed a cooperation agreement with the University of Cambridge, which allowed the Turkmen company to become the first official distributor of teaching materials of this leading British University in Turkmenistan.
The opening of the first store offering licensed literature of the University of Cambridge is a result of this productive partnership. The customers will have access not only to teaching and educational materials, but also to fiction and specialized literature in English, including manuals on aviation, oil and gas, tourism industry etc.
The opening ceremony of the bookstore was attended by representatives of the British Embassy in Turkmenistan, teachers of Dalchyn Education Center and its numerous language students.
Every textbook comes with a CD containing texts read by professional speakers with classic pronunciation and accent. Sets also include videos that help explore the theory and apply it practically.
Besides the bookstore, Alty Alaf thematic café was opened as well. The place is decorated with different pieces reflecting the English culture. Immersing into the atmosphere of Misty Albion, language students will have a chance to relax after classes and try British cuisine, snacks and desserts cooked by professional chefs, and enjoy dozens of coffee varieties.
The building also hosts a Resource Center where students have free access to books, movies and other aids, and can discuss acquired information. This allows them to immerse deeper into the atmosphere of the language they are learning.
It is worth mentioning that cooperation with international educational institutions is expanding with foreign specialists and native speakers being invited to conduct practical lessons with students and staff of the Center.
Immediate plans include organizing extensive English courses with participation of lecturers from the University of Cambridge.
Unique feature of classes offered at the Center is that they are aimed at creating a special atmosphere that facilitates retention of acquired knowledge through establishing a dialog in a foreign language between learners. Groups do not exceed 15 students, allowing the teacher to give attention to every trainee.
The main task that teachers of the Center have set for themselves is effective language teaching in a short term with individual approach to every student.For instance, the English program for beginners is divided into six stages and takes approximately 18 months.
More advanced students may be offered a shortened program.With due diligence, students who have completed all stages will have acquired knowledge and experience that will allow them to sit IELTS test that is required for employment, or admission to foreign universities.
Considering the peculiarities of perception of foreign languages by different age groups, courses are intended for three categories of students: 7-12, 13-19 and 20 years and above. Children are taught in a playful manner, with quiz games, competitions and techniques for easier language learning.
These days the Center has announced the admission to winter courses of Turkmen, English, Russian, German and French.