Individual Programs

CAELC offers one-on-one, customized learning modules for UVa researchers, staff and faculty whose first language is not English and who want to improve their English language communication skills. Once individuals are assessed, our instructors develop a tailored program with a focus on oral or written communication skills.

Programs are arranged to meet the learner's schedule. Instructors and learners interact both in-person and online through video conferencing. Those who focus on the development of their oral communication skills enjoy an additional hour of practice each week with one of our Student Language Consultants.

The following courses are eligible for individualized instruction:

ESL 0913 Academic Communications Seminar for Researchers - Oral Skills Component*

Advanced oral communication course designed for researchers, fellows, and visiting faculty at the University. Participants learn and practice strategies to enhance oral communication with colleagues and professional contacts. They gain skills in conversing with individuals and groups and in giving presentations. Available in a one-on-one format 2 hours/week or small group 2 hours/week plus one hour/week of structured practice for six weeks.

Restricted to Instructor Permission.

*Program Fee of $750.00.
 

ESL 0914 Academic Communications Seminar for Researchers - Writing Skills Component*

Advanced writing course for researchers, fellows, and visiting faculty at the University. Participants fine-tune writing skills through analyzing models, writing up research and creating professional correspondence. Course topics include effective argumentation, academic style, coherence, conciseness, and clarity. Strategic use of sentence structure and vocabulary is also covered. Students will receive feedback on each writing assignment. Available in a one-on-one format, 2 hours/week for six weeks.

Restricted to Instructor Permission.

*Program fee of $750.00.
 

ESL 0916 Academic Communications Seminar for Researchers II*

Oral communication course designed for researchers, fellows, and visiting faculty at the University as a continuation of the skills developed in ESL 913 and ESL 914, in which participants practice language negotiation strategies, gain skills in conversing with individuals and groups, and augment ability to give presentations. Available in a one-on-one format 2 hours/week or small group 2 hours/week plus one hour/week of structured practice for six weeks.

Restricted to Instructor Permission.

*Program fee of $750.00.
 

Participants in an Individualized Program will be enrolled in their own course section in the Student Information System (SIS). Each participant will have a permanent record in SIS of his/her work with a grading option of satisfactory/unsatisfactory.

The fee for an Individualized Program is posted to a participant’s SIS account, and payment is completed through SIS or at the Cashier’s Window in Carruthers Hall.
  
Eligible University employees may use their Ed Benefit dollars to pay for an Individualized Program.

To request a course, please fill out this form.

Request Deadlines: 

Summer semester- May 1

Fall semester - August 15

Spring semester - January 15

Note: Requests received after the posted deadlines will be postponed until the following semester. Requests are subject to instructor availability. 

For more information, contact CAELC at 434-924-3372 or caelc@virginia.edu.