Thursday, 3 May 2012

Online Korean Language Programs & Courses


There are currently no online programs for studying the Korean language, nor is Korean commonly offered as a standalone degree major by a traditional college or university. However, some schools do offer supplemental online resources for those learning Korean as part of their East Asian studies or language & culture degree programs. Elementary through post-advanced coursework material is available.

Overview of Korean Language Programs & Courses

Typically, East Asian studies & language & culture programs are offered as bachelor's degrees, although in some instances the student can pursue a master's degree or doctorate in the subject. Korean, like many languages, is typically taught according to level of difficulty. Students with no former training begin at the basic or elementary level; as their understanding of the language increases, so does the complexity of the coursework. Those who successfully finish fourth or fifth year classes should be fully fluent in speaking, reading & writing Korean.

Program Information & Requirements

Bachelor's degrees in East Asian studies & similar language & culture programs typically take four years to complete; master's degrees generally require two years of full-time study. Other Korean language classes are offered online as part of a non-degree option, which allow students to study at their own pace. Students need a computer & Internet connection to access online components, which can include online lessons that utilize text, audio & graphics to help students become fluent in the Korean language. Resources that discuss Korean language, culture, art, history & philosophy may also be made available to interested students.

Common Course Descriptions

Korean language courses are offered at multiple levels of difficulty & generally require students to complete courses in consecutive order.

Elementary Korean Course

Also referred to as 'first-year Korean', this course is designed for those who have no prior background in the language. Students learn to read & write Hangul, the native Korean alphabet, & begin lessons in basic grammar & vocabulary. Towards the end of the course, curriculum focuses more on listening comprehension & conversational skills.

Intermediate Korean Course

This second-year course builds upon the writing, reading, listening & speaking skills attained during the elementary course. Students learn new words & expressions & develop an improved understanding of the language as a whole. Towards the completion of the course, students are expected to verbally engage in a lengthy dialogue with others on a variety of subject matters.

Advanced Korean Course

Students should have a solid comprehension of the Korean language prior to the start of the course. Advanced skills in speaking, reading, writing & listening are taught, with frequent exercises provided in each. At the end of the course, students should be nearly fully fluent in all aspects of the Korean language, able to talk at length, expressing thoughts & feelings on nearly any given topic.

Fourth/Fifth Year Korean Course

Various Korean writing styles & genres are the primary focus of this course; students read & interpret everything from native Korean newspaper clippings to novels. Cultural & societal topics are also introduced. Successful completion of the course should elevate the student's understanding of the language to approximately the same level as that of a native Korean-speaking adult.

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