Logopedia for DSL (Dutch as a Second Language)

Many non-native speakers in Brussels follow courses in Dutch as a second language. However, for some, expressing themselves clearly in Dutch is not self-evident. Although they regularly attend classes, they find it difficult to master certain Dutch sounds. It can also be difficult for them to place the accent on the correct syllable or phrase within a sentence. For this reason, in 2006, the House of Dutch in Brussels began offering logopedic support at the various CVOs (Adult Continuing Education Centres) in Brussels. This support consists of providing guidance for students as well as training for instructors in the area of pronunciation.

For the student of DSL

At each CVO in Brussels, there is an open learning centre (OLC), a support centre where course students can obtain extra instruction. A logopedist is made available every week to give extra help to students with pronunciation difficulties.

Extra exercises are given in:

• auditory training
• pronunciation of the sounds in Dutch
• prosody (accent placement in words, in sentences, intonation, rhythm, etc.)
• rate of speech
• volume of speech
• fear of speaking.

In this way, we hope to make course students more assertive and to encourage them to speak to neighbours and friends in Dutch.

For the teacher of DSL

For teachers, it is not always easy to focus on pronunciation with each individual student during class. Nevertheless, a number of small adjustments can already help certain students greatly.

Would you like to know how to address your students' pronunciation during class without having to make major adjustments to your lesson plan? Please contact one of our logopedists for more information about the training.

New basic training course: "Working on making yourself understood"

This autumn, for teachers of DSL in Brussels, a basic course in Logopedia will be offered at the various CVOs. The training consists of a practical 2-hour workshop on the subject of clear speech in class. Download the brochure here.

More information?

Machteld Veugelen
Machteld.veugelen@huisnederlandsbrussel.be or 02 501 66 62

Katrijn Goffin
katrijn.goffin@huisnederlandsbrussel.be or 02 501 66 62

Marianne Housen
marianne.housen@huisnederlandsbrussel.be or 02 501 66 62

Partners?

CVO AVC Meise, CVO Brussel, CVO-K.H.N.B, CVO Lethas, CVO Taalleergangen

This initiative is subsidized by the Flemish Community Commission.