Hi-tech learning tool to teach ancient Greek

Thursday 16 August 2001

An innovative hi-tech scheme to teach the Classics through interactive learning will be launched next year at the University of St Andrews.

The University’s School of Greek, Latin and Ancient History has been awarded one of the first grants to be made by the Learning and Teaching Support Network (LTSN), a new government-funded body aimed at promoting innovative teaching in UK universities.

The £3,000 award, one of only three given to classicists in the UK, and the only to be awarded in Scotland this year, will fund the development of ‘Proteus’, a unique piece of software designed to help improve the reading of Ancient Greek texts.

“The award will enable St Andrews to make use of state-of-the-art information technology to enhance its fine tradition for teaching Ancient Greek language and literature,” said Dr Jonathan Hesk of the School of Greek, Latin and Ancient History.

The interactive teaching tool, so- named after the mythical Greek figure Proteus (who could transform himself into a monster or fire) because of its flexibility, is designed to be an adaptable platform, suitable for all levels of users from complete beginners upwards.

A prototype of the tool is currently being tested, but it is hoped that it will be used from next year as an interactive supplement to classroom teaching. It will be used primarily to help with word recognition, using material such as Homer’s ancient Greek epic works, ‘The Iliad’ and ‘The Odyssey’.

Although it will be used to teach the Greek language, its flexibility will ensure that it can be used to help teach other languages.

The project will also witness the collaboration of the University with a local school in St Andrews, who will also use the tool to help teach schoolchildren ancient languages.

ENDS

NOTES TO EDITORS:

The University of St. Andrews was ranked top UK university for the study of Classics by the Guardian in May last year.

Issued by Beattie Media On behalf of the University of St Andrews Contact Gayle Cook on 01334 467227, mobile 07900 050103, or email [email protected]


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