Since this summer, International Summer School has organized Norwegian courses for refugees. Some digital courses started in July. Ivan is attending an in-person class, which started in September.
- I like the teaching very much. I have earlier learned foreign languages in Ukraine, and I can say that the teaching here is good, says Ivan.
- Anything particular that you have noticed about the Norwegian language?
- Yes, there are many interconnections to the English language.
No previous knowledge of Norwegian is required in the course. However, in order to benefit from the classes, participants must have substantial knowledge of spoken and written English.
Kateryna is another Ukrainian student in the same language class at Blindern.
- I like the teaching. It helps me to know some Norwegian language. For example, when I go shopping, I say: “Jeg trenger ikke pose”, explains Kateryna.
The Norwegian course for refugees is based on dialogues, focusing on the use of spoken Norwegian in everyday life. During the course, they will practice common situations and use the language actively from the very first session.
Camile and Pavlo is a Ukrainian couple attending the course. The course takes place in the morning.
-The UiO schedule with early classes works well for us, since we have children, explains Pavlo.
-I am super happy to be here, says Camile.
- I like to learn language at home, and we try to practice at home. I use Norwegian in communication with my children’s teachers. The teachers appreciate that I use some Norwegian. It is important for us, also, since we then feel more like regular parents, she explains.
Pavlo is nodding.
-I agree. I recently used Norwegian at a “foreldrem?te”. It helps us to communicate with the children’s school, says Pavlo.
The focus of the course is on spoken Norwegian. As part of the feedback process the students practice pronunciation, intonation and accentuation. These Norwegian courses do not have exams or provide university credits. The courses are provided on level 1 to level 3.
