For adults who have long-dreamed of learning Hebrew, a new instructional program is being developed for study via the internet.  The sole requirement for admission will be the ability to recognize the letters of the Hebrew alphabet. 

The pilot for the program is being developed by two highly experienced Hebrew educators, Rachel Korazim and Pazia Sela, who have taught Hebrew and Israeli culture to educators and students in Israel and throughout the world. Key principles of their approach are active participation in conversation and building basic vocabulary. Humor also helps.  The online PowerPoint presentations include Hebrew greetings exchanged by George Bush and Queen Elizabeth and an irate conversation prompted by a telephone caller who didn't take into account the time difference between Tel Aviv and Chicago.

The pilot will eventually lead to a program of 48 lessons, divided into 4 sections. The program's graphics and logistical development are supported by a computer design company, commissioned for these tasks.  The virtual lessons will meet the needs of a range of adult learners across Europe and the United States, from prospective olim to Federation professionals.  It is anticipated that the program will draw overseas family members who want to communicate with Hebrew-speaking grandchildren as well as Diaspora kindergarten teachers who need to develop their basic Hebrew skills. The success of the pilot phase will lead to the expansion of the program.