ENGLISH LANGUAGE PROGRAMS

Improve your pronunciation and fluency in your own home, on your own schedule

We offer supported online software for pronunciation and fluency practice through our noncredit course Linguistics 483: Supported Online Speech & Language Training.  The software is accessed online, which means you can practice anytime and anywhere that is convenient for you. Students must actively use the system for a minimum of 30 minutes each week to earn a satisfactory grade for the quarter.

ELSA™ (English Language Speech Assistant) software provides a way for students to practice speaking in English on their own at any time. Users will compare their speech to a native speaker’s, study their mistakes, and receive tips for improvement. The ELSA app offers 7,100+ lessons, accessible from any mobile device, in the areas of pronunciation, fluency, intonation, word stress, listening, and contextual vocabulary. Features include daily recommended practice plans, progress tracking, voice-enabled role plays, speaking practice, and more.  The ELSA app is accessible online from any device with an Internet connection, or through the Media and Design Studio located in Kresge Centennial Hall.

In-person support: Students can also get human support and help from ELP instructors through drop-in sessions and the Canvas course site. 

Please note that all of our services, including online software, are non-credit courses. For students, Linguistics 483 appears on transcripts.  The possible grades are "satisfactory" and "unsatisfactory". Although students receive a grade, the grade does not affect GPA and the course does not affect student course loads. Non-students, including faculty, postdocs, staff, and visiting scholars can audit the course, but must register through English Language Programs. Please contact us for a copy of the syllabus, or questions about weekly or quarterly software usage requirements and hardware requirements. We are happy to help!

Click here to be taken to the registration and eligibility page.