Several classrooms at the Linguistic Normalization Center of Osona recently welcomed Karen, a Colombian student at the Elementary 1 level; Inés, a former Uruguayan student who completed level C2; and Aziz, a former Moroccan student from level B2. This initiative is part of the classroom linguistic awareness project by the Consorci per a la Normalització Lingüística (CPNL).
The program aims to connect current learners with individuals who have had similar experiences. Before the meeting, students prepare questions about their motivations, challenges, learning strategies, and the opportunities the language has provided them. Afterward, they reflect on the insights gained from these encounters.
The value of this activity lies in the power of real testimonials. The guests become relatable role models, demonstrating that learning Catalan is an achievable challenge. Through their life stories, they convey confidence, useful strategies, and the importance of perseverance and language use for progress.
The initiative is part of the CPNL's classroom linguistic awareness project, which this quarter is piloting personalized learning paths and challenges for B2 and C1 level students. Following an initial assessment, students can choose one of four pathways and commit to completing two challenges during the term. These range from simple daily actions to more involved activities like reading or watching films in Catalan.
In the most demanding pathway, one challenge involves becoming a role model for other learners by sharing one's own experience and motivating new students. This completes the project's cycle: those who once needed a close role model to advance can eventually become a source of inspiration themselves.
Having role models is crucial when facing any personal challenge, including language learning. This reality is evident both inside and outside the classroom, in settings like language exchange partnerships or experiences shared through media and social networks.
Through activities like these success stories, the CPNL reinforces the fundamental idea that lived experiences can be the best stimulus for others to gain confidence, use Catalan, and continue their learning journey.
