WISLI FAQ Sheet

In light of the new COVID-19 era and the move to virtual instruction for all intensive language institutes in the summer of 2020, WISLI has created a FAQ sheet and some additional resources:

As announced in early April, the Wisconsin Intensive Summer Language Institutes (WISLI) will be offering classes remotely in Summer 2020.   While the format will be different this summer, students can still expect a high quality of intensive language instruction that has been offered in previous summers.

What will classes look like in this virtual environment?

  • Classes will meet for 20 hours a week for four hours a day, Monday-Friday, during set meeting times. It is expected that students are available to be online for the class times, as well as have time to do homework, practice, and projects outside of class time.
  • Course materials will be organized in Canvas, the learning management system at UW-Madison, and use Blackboard Collaborate Ultra for instructor-facilitated class meetings.
  • The course content and format will be dynamic and can include:
    • Synchronous all-class meetings
    • Daily reflective questions
    • Lectures and presentations
    • Audio and video activities
    • Readings
    • Assignments and tasks
    • Student presentations and interviews
    • Regular Formative and Summative assessments
  • All activities, whether synchronous or asynchronous, will be teacher-led, facilitated, or moderated.
  • In addition to classes, there will also be co-curricular activities including presentations, demonstrations, and movie nights to provide opportunities for language practice and use outside of class hours.
  • WISLI staff and instructors are committed to our students’ language learning goals and will provide support to ensure the highest quality of learning experience possible.

WISLI 2020: RESOURCES

WISLI 2020: FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAQ)

Have questions about the Summer 2020 Wisconsin Intensive Summer Language Institutes (WISLI) courses?  Below are answers to some questions you may have about remote instruction this summer.  If you have other questions, please contact us at wisli@iris.wisc.edu so we can help you get the information you need and update our FAQ as additional questions arise.

Are there regular class meeting times?  Yes, classes meet for four hours a day, Monday through Friday.  Class meeting times are listed in the UW-Madison timetable.

When are classes held?  The summer language institutes run from Monday, June 15-Friday, August 7, 2020.  It is expected that students commit to the full 8-weeks of language study.

What kind of technology will I need to participate in class?  At a minimum, students will need a high-speed, wired connection in a location that is free from distractions.  See the Internet-Connectivity Support document for more details.   If you would are unsure of your connection, contact the institute to test out your system.

How do I prepare for study this summer?  Prior to your arrival, you will be given access to a WISLI Student Orientation Canvas course to introduce you to WISLI, UW-Madison resources and partners, as well as guide you on navigating remote learning over the summer.