I have learnt several languages now since I realised that ‘the doors are open’ in the Internet age. That is, the Internet can be used for ill or well like any other object. Facebook or flashcards? That is the question!

I would strongly advise the University to strengthen its international exchange credientials. Erasmus is an excellent start, but greater returns for the home students can be found by packing them off to other countries for a term or two.

I also agree with Luke that it is definitely admirable for a staff member to learn another language for the purposes outlined in the comment piece!

I appreciate the intention behind this, but such a measure would be sending a very negative message to international students. I, for one, would find it to be needlessly repressive.

Also, on a practical level, how could this ever be enforced? For example, would someone come up to me and tell me off for speaking Greek with a Greek friend of mine – supposedly because I ought to be improving my English?

At the end of the day, students make their own choices. Many will take advantage of the unique opportunity they’ve been presented with and try to absorb as much of a foreign culture as possible, while others will be excluding themselves, trying to live in their own miniature world for the duration of their course.

People can of course be encouraged to think about these choices, but I don’t think that any such restriction can force anyone to change their attitude.

I can see why it’d throw people in at the deep end as so to speak and help develop language skills, but in my opinion your use of language is one of the most effective links to your identity, and to compromise that is a dangerous move- if you can swim in the deep end then you may keep going but if you can’t you’d be forcing international students who’re less confident to stay in their rooms, counter-acting the inclusive aim of the project.

Learning another language is such a difficult task, and I really admire anyone else who can do it properly. I’m jealous because it’s something that i’d really, really have to dedicate time to to ever become efficient in. Qualification wise I have a C in A Level French- I had to work harder for that than two As in other subjects. I love listening to people talk in French, but i’m terrified that i’ll ever have to create a novel sentence in speech.

I would like to add that I am proud to be studying at a university where the PVC is making this step- it’s a very admirable achievement.