What is IMLAC?

WHAT IS IMLAC?

Imlac was founded in 1975 out of concern for a More effective approach to language learning and cross-cultural communication. These concerns led to an evaluative visit by Dr.Donald N. Larson, internationally known anthropological linguist. IMLAC is an active member in the MTI Congress, and other national and international linguistic bodies.

WHY IS IMLAC IMPORTANT?

Culture is all the values, beliefs, attitudes, and behavior patterns shared by a society. Culture is the “glue” which holds people together. When one makes contact with a different culture, it is not enough just to observe apparent differentces or similarities of dress, behavior, or  artfacts. These external manifestations are only clues leading to the deeper meanings which we call culture. For example, within a culture all people may not be dressed alike, but all may be dressed “ properly” if each person’s attire accords with the values, beliefs, and attitudes that govern dress.

IMLAC’s goals have been formulated with the cultural imperative in mind.

IMLAC ADMINISTRATION

A board of managers administers IMLAC, which represents both the founding organizations as well as additional members to have a balanced perspective. The IMLAC director is responsible to the Board of Managers.

LOCATION

Salatiga is located in Center Java, Indonesia. Address: Jalan Bina Taruna No.02, Kelurahan Mangunsari, Kecamatan Sidomukti, Kota Salatiga, Provinsi Jawa Tengah, Indonesia. Telepon Number: (0298) 311780 , email: imlac_salatiga@yahoo.com

COURSES OFFERED AT IMLAC

The basic Indonesian language course is nine 20 day units, each followed by an interterm of approximately one-week during evaluations are conducted. Unit 1 always begin with an orientation session, usually on the Friday morning prior to it start. Each beginning student is required to attend this orientation session these units are:

1-3       Leraning to Listen & Speak

4-6       Learning to Read & Write

7-9       Exploring the Culture

The daily schedule for units 1-3 includes four hours at IMLAC. Units 4-6 include two hours at IMLAC. Units 7-9 include ten hours per week, which are more individualized than earlier units. IMLAC’s focus is to have students interacting within the general community as their source of information and learninf. For general description of this course, read Guidelines for Barefoot Language Learning by Donald N.Larson.

IMLAC REGULATIONS

1.      Prior familiarity with the Roman alphabet, as used in the Indonesian language, is mandatory

2.      Attendance at Orientation is mandatory

3.      IMLAC should be notified of anticipated absences

4.      One hour evaluations are given each student during the interterm between units

5.      Advancement to the next unit is dependent upon the student’s daily progress and evaluation results.

IMLAC MISSION STATEMENT

To assist foreigners who permanently reside in Indonesia in developing their use of the Indonesian language or local languages in Indonesia, and to help these foreigners better understand Indonesian customs.

IMLAC’S PROGRAM OBJECTIVE

Moving a student to independence and involvement.

Independence teachers the student how to continue on in culture and language acquisition on his own learning from people he comes inti contact with every day.

Involvement encourages students to seek participation and interaction with Indonesian people and ideas right from the beginning of their time of study.