Centre for Lifelong Learning Student
Advanced Italian Book Group
What first attracted you to taking a course at the Centre for Lifelong Learning?
I was keen to do a class in Italian as my Italian was getting a bit rusty. I was impressed by the range of Italian classes on offer. I studied Italian at Strathclyde as an undergraduate and have fond memories of my time there, so was keen to do a class at Strathclyde. Prior to COVID-19, this would have meant travelling between Edinburgh and Glasgow. With the classes now being delivered through Zoom, I can easily access the CLL classes without leaving my house!
I had a positive experience of a short online course in the summer and was keen to go further with a longer class.
There is also a discount for graduates of Strathclyde.
What do you enjoy most about your course?
The opportunity to speak Italian with a native speaker and with my fellow students. Reading books in Italian, something I’ve not done since I was an undergraduate.
What are your thoughts on the range of programmes on offer?
There is a good range of courses from languages to art to other disciplines. I would like to see more Creative Writing programmes.
What advice would you give to a prospective student coming to study your course?
Buy all of the books well in advance. The Italian Bookshop is recommended. Make sure you access the materials on my CLL, checking for updates in the green briefcase! Plan time to read the novels in advance of the next meeting.
Have you enjoyed learning online in the absence of face to face classes?
Absolutely! The class includes use of the Zoom breakout rooms, matching how a class might have been delivered with students also working in small groups as well as interacting with the tutor. Online learning through CCL has enabled me to participate in a subject I love at Strathclyde which I have been wanting to do for some time now. Having the course online makes it very easy for me as I don’t live in Glasgow. I would encourage people from outside Glasgow to enrol for the CLL online classes as they are excellent and definitely well worth the money compared with other providers.