A world of opportunities

Languages on Social Care programmes

Imelda Cooke

Overview Background: Towards a national

standard AIT situation – languages offered

and why Ireland in a European context European programmes Work/placement opportunities Useful contacts

Languages in AIT

Elective Years 1 and 2 Cert. Years 1 to 4 of BA French – post- Leaving Cert. German – ab initio and plc Spanish – ab initio

Why languages?

‘The limits of my language mean the limits of my world’……Ludwig Wittgenstein

Personal development Broadens your experiences, expands view of

the world Fosters understanding of relation between

language, culture, human nature Encourages respect for other peoples Exposes you to modes of thought outside of

native language All important in Ireland’s multi-cultural society Enables our students to compete in an

international arena

Intellectual benefits of language learning Offers new insights into native

language Develops one’s ability to think

logically and creatively Improves communicative skills, both

oral and written Allows direct access to

literature/books/films/songs in original language

Why French? Second most frequently taught

language after English The official language of 28 countries Spoken on five continents French and English are the two global

languages The official working language of many

international organizations (NATO, UNESCO, European community etc.)

Why German? Key language in the European Union

Gateway to the rapidly growing markets of Central and Eastern Europe

Germany is the US's largest European trading partner

Widely used as a business and scientific language in Europe, Russia, and parts of Asia

Why Spanish? Most commonly used foreign language

spoken in the US Dominant language spoken in 21

countries on five continents Fifth most widely spoken in the world,

used by 300 million people Approximately 17.5 million people

(10% of the US population) speak Spanish

Ireland in the European Union

Enlargement: 450million Europeans Importance of language skills for

communicating and free movement 2001 European year of languages Barcelona 2002 2003 European commission’s action

plan

Action plan

Primary schools initiative European language portfolio: a

language passport which can be described according to common criteria.

European mobility programmes

‘The hope of a nation lies in the proper education of its youth.’

Erasmus

Socrates Erasmus programme Erasmus: Action on higher education. teachers’ exchanges joint development of curricula language courses thematic networks between

depts/faculties across Europe preparatory visits ECTS – recognition of study abroad

Who can apply? Open to nationals of the EU countries EEA countries(Iceland, Lichtenstein...) Associated countries:Hungary,

Romania,Czech republic,Poland,Slovak republic,Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, Bulgaria,Slovenia.

Through International office in ITs by Nov 1 every year.

Leonardo da Vinci programme

Aim: to use transnational cooperation to improve quality, foster innovation, and promote the European dimension of vocational and training systems and practices.

Who can apply? Vocational training establishments, centres

and bodies at all levels, universities. Research centres and institutions Undertakings including SMEs and the craft

industry Chambers of commerce Social partners Local and regional bodies and organisations Non profit making organisations Voluntary bodies and NGOs

Mobility for young people and trainers

a. Transnational placement projects For students, young workers and recently

qualified persons, and people in initial vocational training.

b. Transnational exchange projectsTargeted at trainers, occupational guidance

specialists or mentors.

c. Study visits

Work/placement opportunities

Study visit- 1200e per person for 1 week. Prepare the placement.

Placement categories Funds available International dimension to

education and training

Work/placement opportunities

FRANCE English language assistant Scholarships: Connaissance de la

France, French Embassy.

Charities in France Restos du Coeur Samu Social Les petits freres des pauvres L’armee du salut FACTS AFVP The American cathedral in Paris Handicap international

Working with children

Animateur de mini-club Pre-schools Assistant de service social

Multi-cultural Ireland:Refugees and asylum seekers

Application procedure: - 84 question questionnaire - Interview at the Asylum division of

Dept of JusticeUnaccompanied minorsLanguage tuition.School attendanceMedical requirements

Useful links

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Merci de votre attention! Go raibh maith agaibh!