English Prep School (EPS)
Taking into consideration the lack of the use of English in Cambodia and the challenging academic environment at Zaman University, all students who are not native English speakers will be asked to enroll in the English Prep School (EPS) to sharpen their English language skills in every aspect, in the academic year 2010-11. After intensive training at EPS, students must pass the English Proficiency Test (EPT) to start studying their major at Zaman University.
Firstly, students will sit for an English Placement Examination (EPE) in September 2010. It is compulsory for all students to take this examination so that they will be offered a place at EPS. The purpose of this exam is to gauge students’ level of English language skills and to group them into classes according to their level of English.
Learning Methodology at EPS
Zaman University is adopting the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages in teaching English language at EPS. The Common European Framework divides learners into three broad divisions:
A - Basic Speaker
B - Independent Speaker
C - Proficient Speaker
Students at Zaman University will be further grouped within the levels of A, B and C according to their English Language abilities as in A1, A2, B1, B2, C1 and C2. Students who complete C2 level will be given an opportunity to sit for the English Proficiency Test (EPT) in June 2011. If they pass the test, they will start studying in their departments. If they fail, they will be given another chance to pass the test in September 2011 before the academic year 2011-12 starts.
Learning Environment
At Zaman University's English Prep School (EPS), classes are small and teachers pay special attention to student needs. Participation and the practical use of spoken and written English are emphasized. Preparing students for a rigorous academic life fully in English is the main goal of the program.
Apart from core classes, students are required to take part in individual lab work, conversation hours, and special projects or activities. In addition to English classes, students of EPS are also trained with various skills, especially the use of computer and technology, which facilitate their language and academic learning. High quality education and training of Zaman University English Prep School is ensured by the following:
A team of highly qualified teaching staff. English teachers at Zaman University are professionally trained and experienced in the teaching of English as a second/foreign language. All members of the professional faculty have at least a Master's Degree in teaching English as a second/foreign language (TESL/TEFL) and/or linguistics.
Fair evaluation of English Language skills. Students will be able to appreciate their level of English according to the fair measurement scala stipulated for every level in line with the Common European Framework of Reference for Language (CEFR) and strategize their studying by focusing on specific skills which have to be improved.
Availability of labs and facilities. All students have access to computer room, where students use technology to develop reading, vocabulary, and grammar control; the computer classroom also offers word processing, e-mail, and Internet access, and provides experience with various software applications.
