ESL and BEYOND at Dean College

The FOCUS Program is a unique and innovative program for international students entering college in America. The program combines cultural orientation, language instruction, as well as academic classes to give the international student a holistic educational experience. The students, upon entering, will meet with a counselor who will plan an individualized course of study that will meet the level of English language and cultural support the international student requires to be successful.

Orientation

The mission of the International Student Orientation Program at Dean College is to introduce international students to the academic, social and student life aspect of the college. Through pre-arrival information as well as a two day orientation, the students will have opportunity to ease into college life and become familiar with students and staff. Throughout the first semester, an ongoing orientation is considered to be vital to the success of the international student. The International Student Resident Director works closely with the students to support and provide cultural activities.

Oral Communication

This module will focus on developing and improving speaking and listening skills. Students will be actively involved in classroom instruction that emphasizes vocabulary, pronunciation, stress, intonation for individual growth and group communication skills. Through out the semester, students will participate in interviews, speeches and conversations with peers and staff.

Written Communication

In this course, students will work on grammar, reading and writing skills. Organization of thoughts and ideas will be stressed. The goal of the course is to teach paragraph writing with the final component being to develop a five paragraph essay. Reading will be a strong component of writing as it relates to academic courses that the students take at the college.

Critical Thinking/Study Skills

This course focuses on American Culture, cross-cultural conflict/resolutions, academic expectations, strategies, and study skills as it relates to the student’s planned curriculum. The course will involve reading, listening, writing and grammar using abstract concepts.

Learning Lab

The students will have individualized structured support and assistance to meet the varied needs of writing, study and course-specific tutoring. Specialists work closely with the international students to create a foundation for success in their academic classes.

TOEFL Prep

This course will allow students to review and practice skills necessary for taking the TOEFL examination. The class will meet weekly and will focus on reading, vocabulary and grammar skill development. Test taking strategies will also be emphasized.

Overview of International Student Program

*Learning Lab provides one hour of one-on-one tutorial with a professional specialist. Additional hour of tutorial support may be added for a fee of $700 per semester.

**Only for students who have not already completed Critical Thinking (ISP 101).

*** TOFEL Prep is optional at this level.

For more information on the FOCUS Program, please contact: