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10 December 2004
An exciting collaboration between Charles Darwin University, Flinders University and the Greek Orthodox community of the Northern Territory will see Modern Greek Language and Culture study units introduced at Charles Darwin University.
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Modern Greece |
The studies will also be supported by scholarships and plans to include a Study Abroad and Exchange Program with Greek Universities.
From 2005 Charles Darwin University students will have the opportunity to include Modern Greek studies as part of any undergraduate degree. The units will be suitable not only for students who have a Greek background, but also for students with limited or no previous knowledge of Modern Greek.
“This is a n historical moment for the Greek community of Darwin and Charles Darwin University,” Dr Dennis Shoesmith, Head of the Charles Darwin University’s School of Creative Arts and Humanities, said.
“Despite the economical circumstances in universities in the area of languages, it is promising to see optimism and support here in the Northern Territory.
“It is a big step for the involved parties and we anticipate that the enthusiasm from the Greek Community will continue to attract many students and provide the required funds for the Modern Greek program to be successful.''
The units will be offered by staff from Flinders University and assisted by a facilitator, sponsored by the Greek Government, to teach and support the external delivery of the units
Flinders University staff, led by Dr George Frazis, will provide the means for students to undertake study at a distance, with weekly contact being made through web pages and through the exchange of papers, faxes, tapes, emails etc.
All students will be required to attend seminars and tutorials held on campus.
Students will also participate in language and culture classes delivered in English through video conferencing from Flinders University on various Greek and Cypriot culture related studies.
Charles Darwin University will become one of only nine tertiary institutions offering Modern Greek studies. These include Flinders University in South Australia, the University of Melbourne and Sydney University.
The ‘Friends of Modern Greek at CDU’, chaired by George Tsirbas has been particularly supportive of the establishment of Modern Greek studies. The committee will establish two scholarships of $2000 each (one for beginners and one for advanced students) and also has plans to include a Study Abroad and Exchange Program with Greek Universities.
Dr George Frazis from Flinders University will be in Darwin for the Higher Education Orientation Days and hopes to meet as many students as possible. The Greek community will also provide a special display at the Orientation Sessions.
The units are available to any student who can choose electives in their undergraduate degree. They are particularly recommended for Bachelor of Arts students.
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