Introduction to Afrikaans Language and Culture

Helga Sykstus serves as Lecturer and Coordinator at the Language Centre of Stellenbosch University, bringing 23 years of experience in teaching Afrikaans as an additional language. As the overhead coordinator of language development, she oversees academic reading and writing modules, particularly for legal students, and coordinates Afrikaans language acquisition modules for international students. Her expertise spans language teaching, language development, second-language acquisition, and technologies for language teaching and learning. Since 2000, she has been instrumental in developing academic literacy interventions, including a significant project focusing on second-language listening skills in the Faculty of Engineering. Her research and teaching methodology emphasize metacognitive strategies and active learning approaches, creating a positive and supportive environment for language learners while focusing on developing strategic and conscious readers.

Dr. Arné Binneman serves as the Head of Multilingual Learning at Stellenbosch University's Language Centre, where she oversees the Afrikaans, isiXhosa, and South African Sign Language portfolios. With a PhD focused on language acquisition, she specializes in academic literacies, technology integration in language learning, and higher education studies. Her passion for innovative teaching methods and technology integration in higher education drives her approach to language learning and teaching. She leads initiatives to develop students' academic language skills and thinking strategies essential for successful university study, while coordinating Academic Literacies and the Language Learning Hub. Through her leadership, the Language Centre continues to enhance its support for students' academic and professional development, offering comprehensive language learning solutions that embrace technological innovation and multicultural understanding.