AUA Extension Completes English Language Courses for Artsakhtsis

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YEREVAN, Armenia — In a dedicated effort to support students displaced from Artsakh, American University of  Armenia (AUA) Extension recently completed General English language courses in Yerevan, reaching out to 50 participants from Artsakh.  These courses were specifically designed to enhance the participants’ competitiveness in the job market by expanding their language skills. Extension’s comprehensive English language program focuses on all four essential language components — reading, writing, speaking, and grammar — and has yielded favorable results among the students in the first cohort who have successfully transitioned to the next level.

A distinctive feature of AUA Extension’s General English classes is its individual attention to student progress through a tailored student-centered approach. The 80-hour General English courses are designed to be dynamic, with students actively participating in discussions, group activities, and peer evaluations. The curriculum places added emphasis on advancing language proficiency in real-world communication, encouraging students to practice English in practical contexts. Additionally, the use of multimedia resources and technology enhances the learning experience, making it more engaging and effective.

The courses, delivered from March to June, were carefully scheduled to accommodate the diverse needs as well as the academic and professional aspirations of the students. Student participation varied across the courses, with beginner levels 1 and 2 reaching the highest enrollment. Students also had the opportunity to take part in Speaking English classes, TOEFL, Business English, and more. 

As level-3-student Narine Avanesyan stated: “I can honestly say that I’m extremely satisfied and grateful. The knowledge I gained will be invaluable going forward. Participation in group discussions has been therapeutic by significantly distracting the students from the negative emotions of their recent experiences. It’s been psychologically beneficial for me and everyone else in the group. At 46, I initially thought it might be too late for me to learn a new language, but this experience has proven to be exactly what I needed.”

Similarly, level-2-student Arsen Baghriyan said: “The quality of instruction was commendable and characterized by clear and simple explanations that significantly enhanced my communication skills. I am profoundly grateful for the opportunity to enroll and look forward to further improvement opportunities.”

Following the successful completion of this initial offering for displaced youth from Artsakh, AUA Extension is moving on to the next round of General English classes on June 23. 

AUA Extension is the non-degree arm of the American University of Armenia (AUA), offering certificate programs, courses and workshops especially geared to meeting the educational needs of individuals from diverse backgrounds, occupations, and professional pursuits. Extension works closely with governmental organizations and corporate entities to identify the specific training areas that must be met. To address those expressed needs, AUA Extension designs and develops a wide range of courses, including language classes, test preparation courses, and professional development workshops in demand, revisited annually. Through its regional centers across Armenia, AUA Extension brings a rich learning curriculum to local residents for them to thrive and aptly contribute to the development of their communities. Additionally, AUA Extension provides testing services on behalf of various international standardized tests for college admission and professional certification.