The Nuffield Languages Programme and BBC Factual & Learning joined forces in May 2002 to explore the potential of e-learning in enhancing the opportunities for adults to learn languages.

They set up an action research project to develop an innovative language learning model for adult beginners, combining the flexibility of online materials with opportunities for learners to interact with a tutor and with other learners.

The model was tested by running a prototype course in four areas with adults who wished to learn Spanish from scratch, with support but without committing to a traditional weekly course. Neil Selwyn and Nina Smalley of Cariff University School of Social Sciences evaluated the effectiveness of the prototype and produced a detailed report of their findings. It was presented at a consultation seminar at the Nuffield Foundation on 24 March 2003. The seminar's conclusions, together with feedback from tutors, providers and the project Steering Group, formed the basis of a wider report by the project team on e-language learning for adults.

The project report, incorporating a summary of the Cardiff University evaluation, is available for downlad from Programme in action.

The full evaluation can be downloaded by clicking on the icon above.