De La Salle University - Manila

English Language Laboratory

The English Language Lab (ELL), formerly known as SWL or Speech and Writing Lab, was established in 1986 as an adjunct of the Languages Department, now named the Department of English and Applied Linguistics (DEAL). At present, two components make up the lab: the Reading/Writing Lab, and the Speech Lab.

Reading/Writing Lab

This component is housed in M405 where students' reading and writing skills in English are further developed and enhanced. Reading-into-writing materials, which are either paper-based - that is, produced in-house or commercially published - or computer-based, are used to address students' needs. Each activity ends with a writing task that challenges students to put into writing the insights they might have drawn from the given exercise, and to relate these ideas with their realities. Tutor-student conferencing is a major part of the sessions in the Reading/Writing lab.

University students, both local and foreign, and who are enrolled in English One, may avail themselves of the lab services. Walk-in students from other English courses are accepted. The lab likewise accommodates students who might need assistance on oral production of sounds, specifically on pronunciation and articulation of words. Length of sessions varies according to students' needs. Individualized instruction and small group interactions are made available to facilitate learning.

Speech Lab

This other component of ELL is housed in M407 where students' speech presentations are held and videotaped. Students enrolled in Oral Communication courses are trained to deliver different types of speeches; the videotapes enable them to do self-critiquing which eventually helps them identify their weak points and address them accordingly. Materials in the Speech lab include video cameras, video-playback machines, video players (V8, VHS), cassette recorders, overhead projectors, and microphones - all aimed at enhancing students' oral communication skills.

The English language Lab, therefore, exists to help students enhance their communication skills in English and to motivate them to access various language resources towards personal development. Accomplishment of this mission can lead to the realization of De La Salle University's vision as a world-class institution - that of producing graduates who are competent in English communication, both in oral and spoken forms.