Applied English Linguistics (Kurt Kohn)

EntecNet - Environmental Technology Communication

Development and validation of German language learning materials for Environmental Technology

Leonardo da Vinci programme (European Union) 2004-2007

Responsibility for the environment is an integral part of European economic life. Many sectors, such as forest industries and mechanical engineering, have to recognise the sustainable use of natural resources and be able to communicate and discuss environment-related issues with their customers and colleagues from their respective industrial partners. Germany definitely holds a leading position in the global market of Environmental Technology (ET). The lack of work-related quality study materials and interactive training tools in the area of vocational German for ET is the reason for this project elaboration.

The main objectives of this project are (1) to increase the mobility and adaptability of people working in the ET sector; (2) to develop a multimedia language training package for offline (CD-ROM) and online (Internet) use; (3) to carry out a pedagogic evaluation of pilot courses in blended learning scenarios in France, Romania and Finland; (4) to create a conceptual specification of networking in language teaching and form a transnational learner and tutor group; (5) to create pedagogic networks of cooperation between language teachers of vocational German for ET who will use the teaching-material in networking-courses also beyond the project duration.

The following topics will be covered in the multimedia training package:

• Air, air protection and exhaust purification;
• Water, limnological ecosystems, waste water treatment;
• Soil, terrestrial ecosystems, soil protection, soil and groundwater remediation;
• Biocoenosis, environmental biotechnology;
• Urban areas, solid waste treatment and management, renewable energies;
• Rural areas; management of natural resources.