The Israeli Forum
Yad Beyad
The Project
The objective of Yad BeYad is the acquirement of the English language by olim through intensive courses given by Forum volunteers from english speaking countries. The project was initiated by members of the Canadian Forum, who sought ways to contribute directly to the absorption process in Israel, not necessarily through financial donations. At the same time, Israeli Forum members detected the need for immigrants in Israel to acquire proficiency in the English language, and difficulty on their part to pay for regular courses. Many jobs and professions in Israel require basic proficiency (at the least) in English. Thus theory is translated into reality through a project that is based on a full partnership between Jews of Israel and the Diaspora, founded on an equal and pluralistic approach.
In several of the locations, high school (10-12 grades) and students in pre-university courses, who need extra help in English, are also accepted to the courses.
The Yad BeYad volunteers come from a wide spectrum of professions and backgrounds. Prior to arrival in Israel during the summer, they are trained to teach English. In Israel, Israeli Forum volunteers recruit and screen students, divide them into groups based on proficiency tests also given by the volunteers with the assistance of professional teachers, prepare teaching facilities and equipment, as well as an educational and social program for the teachers and students.
The duration of the course is 4 weeks, which includes 60 teaching hours. Classes take place 5 days a week during the afternoon or evening hours. Several types of classes are offered: Basic English, Advanced English, Business English and Medical English (according to the needs of the students and the backgrounds of the teachers). The students are required to pay only a token sum for the course. Classes include 10-20 students. The travel and accommodation costs of the teachers are covered by the volunteer teachers themselves. Thus the teaching staff changes from year to year. During their stay in Israel the teachers go on trips organized by the Israeli Forum, are kept in close contact with Israeli counterparts and are hosted by Israeli Forum Volunteers.
Facts and Figures
2,200 immigrant students have taken Yad BeYad courses during the project's first 3 years of existence.
Approximately 100 volunteer teachers arrive each year from Canada, the United states and England.
The courses are held in 8-10 locations throughout Israel.
The Future
130 volunteer teachers who will teach approximately 1,500 students in 10 locations, are expected to arrive in the summer of 1997.
For further Information please contact:
Dalia Gildoni -Chairperson
Rachel Uhr - Coordinator
Tel: 972-3-6878836
Fax: 972-3-6878814
email: moriah@israelforum.org.il
The Pedagogic Center
Director: Dr. Motti Friedman
Web site manager: Esther Carciente, esthers@jajz-ed.org.il.
Updated: December 29 ,1996