Learning a language in a self-instructional language program is probably unlike any other course you have taken before. In a regular language course the teacher can be counted on to provide the organization, set the pace, and give necessary guidance and explanations. In the ALSO Program, however, 100% of the responsibility falls directly on you, the student. Because of the nature of this program, you will find that it requires a great deal of time, energy, and self-direction as well as self-discipline.

Over the years many students have achieved admirable success in the ALSO Program as well as self-instructional language programs at other colleges and universities. Self-instructional language study really does work. Whether or not it works successfully for you depends on how well you understand and adapt to the unique nature of the ALSO Program.

• You are self-managing your learning. Thus, successful language mastery depends critically on you--your attitude and participation, and especially, on your self-discipline and work habits.
• The practice session should not in any way be equated with a typical class. Do not assume, as you might in a normal course, that you are coming to practice sessions to be taught. The practice session is for the practice and correction of material that you have already done with the multimedia.