Prospective Student Interview - Whole Word Institute

Prospective Student Interview Form

General

Instruction to the interviewer

Please read through the Academic Admissions Requirements and Criteria Policy before conducting the interview and have that readily available to refer to it as and when needed.
Please note that a prospective student’s information is confidential, and the relevant protection of information laws apply.
Please use print style when completing this form, typed or written.
Please be as concise, yet as complete as possible.

Information about prospective student:

Please confirms/verifies the following information:

Name(Required)

Please enter the student's official name in English characters as on their Passport

First Last

Email(Required)

This must match the email address the student used for their application.

Applying for which year?

Please set again, this is used in SalesForce

Country of Residence(Required)

Country

Citizenship and passport(Required)

Additional citizenship

Country dialing & mobile number(Required)

Home email address

Interest in the programs:

You expressed interest in the following program or programs, please confirm:

Online preparatory, required courses(Required)

Yes

School of Biblical Hebrew(Required)

Yes

Consultant Training and Growth(Required)

Yes

MA Internships and Directed Readings(Required)

Yes

MA In Classical Hebrew(Required)

Yes

MA in Classical Hebrew and Translation Consulting(Required)

Yes

Hebrew Pedagogy Specialization(Required)

Yes

OBT Specialization(Required)

Yes

SLT Specialization(Required)

Yes

Note to interviewer:

Please ensure that the applicant knows the difference between the various programs, requirements, and the difference between the specializations. More information can be found online in the Institute’s catalogue.

For the MA, emphasize the importance of completing the directed readings before returning to regular work duties.

How did you hear about the programs of Whole Word Institute? 

Bible Translation Movement

Agency

Conference

Workshop

Which agency?(Required)

Which conference?(Required)

Which workshop?(Required)

Marketing materials

Catalogue

Brochures

Extension programs in a region

Which region?(Required)

Social Media(Required)

Facebook

Other

Website

Name of website?

Word-of-mouth

Name and Surname of person?

What or who motivated or convinced you to apply for this program? 

What?

Who?

Name: Surname

What do you know about the courses in our programs?  

School of Biblical Hebrew

For the School of Biblical Hebrew, are you aware that you will be studying both biblical Hebrew and modern Hebrew?

Biblical Hebrew | Modern Hebrew

Yes

Explanation to be used by interviewer:
There is a great overlap between the old language and the modern language. Learning modern Hebrew helps a person to internalizes the language, to make it your own. This is the reason why Whole Word Institute teaches both.

Do you have any previous studies in biblical or modern Hebrew?(Required)

Yes

Name of institution:(Required)

Hebrew language pledge:

Did you sign the pledge?(Required)

Yes

Do you understand the pledge you have signed?(Required)

Yes

The interviewer did explain the pledge during the interview.(Required)

Yes

Explanation to be used by interviewer on only Hebrew policy.
Whole Word Institute requires of students to speak only Hebrew during the duration of their time in Jerusalem, in and outside of class. The requirement to speak only Hebrew is part of our pedagogy, without it, the training does not work. There will be times of exception, such as during emergencies, but overall, you will be speaking only Hebrew. As a student you must comply with this to succeed in this program. In the beginning this is very difficult because you have a very limited knowledge of Hebrew. It is frustrating not to be able to communicate, but it pushes you to learn quickly. When you speak only Hebrew your brain wants to learn a new word because you need it to communicate. If you speak in English or French on the side, the brain gets lazy knowing you already have a word for that. This is a great challenge in the beginning, but very rewarding in the end. If you are not ready to only speak Hebrew, this program is not for you. Please then do not come.

Do you now understand what the Hebrew language pledge is?(Required)

Yes

Do you understand why it is required in the program?(Required)

Yes

Pre-requisite Hebrew course:

For the School of Biblical Hebrew:

Are you aware that there is a pre-requisite course you need to complete (fail/pass) to be accepted into the School of Biblical Hebrew?(Required)

Yes

Do you have full access to the course?(Required)

Yes

Are you aware that there is a second test that tests the applicants reading of Biblical Hebrew two months after the exam of the prerequisite course?(Required)

Yes

Explanation to be used by interviewer

The Hebrew department requires of a student to work with this course material also after they have done their tests. The more a student works with the program before their arrival in Jerusalem the greater the success rate while in Jerusalem.

High School Diploma, Certificate or Equivalent

For the School of Biblical Hebrew please answer the following questions:

The interviewer explained to the applicant the requirement as per the policy.(Required)

Yes

Are you aware that you need a High School Diploma, Certificate or Equivalent showing Grade 12 successfully completed?(Required)

Yes

And for deaf applicants?(Required)

Yes

Explanation to be used by interviewer:
The Ministry of Interior requires proof of studies equivalent to a high school diploma for the visa application. This is non-negotiable and Whole Word Institute cannot proceed with your application before it is received.

Language Proficiency

Note to interviewer:

Please refer to the Academic Requirements and Criteria Policy for the School of Biblical Hebrew (1.2.) in this regard, before explaining the following to the applicant. Explanation to be used by interviewer: WWIn accepts students from a variety of cultural and language backgrounds. Language proficiency relates to an applicant’s ability to use language for real-world purposes to accomplish real-world linguistic tasks across a wide spectrum of topics and settings. Proficiency scores, or tests, or evaluations, reflect the level at which a person can communicate in the language tested in. WWIn requires tests or scores taken with in the last 24 months.

For the School of Biblical Hebrew please answer the following questions:

Are you aware that there is a first or second language proficiency needed for the School of Biblical Hebrew?(Required)

Yes

For an applicant from English-speaking countries, successfully passed:

English as first or second language at High School level (Grade 12), submit Grade 12 certificate, or

An equivalent to High School level, submit a transcript indicating three years of English, or

Without Grade 12 at High School Level, submit a letter stating exposure or experience at work or other studies in English,

For an applicant from non-English speaking countries, successfully passed:

Submit an equivalent certificate for applicable first language (language of wider communication) at High School level (Grade 12) achieved, with transcription in English,

An equivalent to High School level, submit a transcript indicating at least three years of first language, or

Without Grade 12 at High School Level, submit a letter stating exposure or experience at work or other studies in first language,

For a deaf applicant using a sign-language:

a written curriculum vitae, or equivalent, in language of wider communication, with a translated copy in English,

a letter detailing exposure and experience in hearing world at work and, or studies,

a letter from the applicant’s sending agency, or congregation, or pastor, or supervisor, confirming sign language ability and, or proficiency,

The interviewer explained to the applicant the requirements as per the policy?
And for deaf applicants?

MA Programs

For the MA programs, please answer the following questions:

Are you aware that you will need a Bachelors in related field to apply for this program?(Required)

Yes

Have you submitted your transcript of the Bachelors?(Required)

Yes

Deaf applicants: there is acceptance into the online preparatory courses and thereafter acceptance into the SBH and/or MA programs(Required)

Yes

The interviewer explained to the applicant the criteria for passing the School of Biblical Hebrew before being granted full acceptance into the MA programs?(Required)

Yes

Note to the interviewer on the criteria:

The average of the School of Biblical Hebrew should be 80% (average, not final grade).

A student in the School of Biblical Hebrew must be in level Gimel for modern Hebrew to continue with the MA Programs and must have finished level Gimel for modern Hebrew to receive an MA degree.

For the MA programs, please answer the following questions on the pre-requisite courses:

Are you aware that there are three pre-requisite courses you need to complete (fail/pass) for acceptance into the MA programs if you do not have prior translation and linguistics experience or training?(Required)

Yes

Introduction to Language?(Required)

Yes

Performing Scripture?(Required)

Yes

Introduction to Translation?(Required)

Yes

The interviewer explained to the applicant Introduction to Language course: Explain to the applicant that he/she will needs to read the book, An Introduction to Language, by Fromkin V, Rodman R and Hyams N., whereafter he/she will need to submit a book report on Canvas.
The interviewer explained to the applicant Introduction to Translation course: Explain to the applicant that he/she will needs to read the book, Introduction to Translation by Barnwell K, whereafter he/she will need to submit a book report in Canvas.
The interviewer explained to the applicant the Performing Scripture course:
Explain to the applicant he/she needs to have either passed the internalisation of Scripture passages successfully in the School of Biblical Hebrew or provide proof of a course taken in Oral Bible Storytelling with internalisation of Scripture.

Do you have full access to the courses?(Required)

Yes

Explain to the student that Academic Services gave (will give) them access to the courses on Canvas.

Graduate Certificates for Specializations:(Required)

The interviewer explained to the applicant the criteria for acceptance into the Specialization Certificates?

Yes

The specializations are a separate certificate, apart from the MA CH or MA CHTC. Hebrew Pedagogy: Can be taken with the MA CH or MA CHTC.

Apply to: Hebrew Department. Criteria: Only students who have successfully completed level Gimel during SBH will be considered.

Oral Bible Translation: Can be taken only with the MA CHTC.

Apply to: Center for Oral Scriptures. Criteria: Only students who have successfully completed level Gimel during SBH, and successful completed all the Orality courses in Fourth Semester will be considered.

Sign Language Translation: Can be taken only with the MA CHTC.

Apply to: Center for Deaf Scriptures.
Criteria: Only students who have successfully completed level Gimel during SBH will be considered.

Language proficiency

Note to interviewer:

Please refer to the Academic Requirements and Criteria Policy for the MA Programs (2.3.) in this regard, before explaining the following to the applicant.
Explanation to be used by interviewer: The Institute accepts students from a variety of cultural and language backgrounds. Language proficiency relates to an applicant’s ability to use language for real-world purposes to accomplish real-world linguistic tasks across a wide spectrum of topics and settings. Proficiency scores, or tests, or evaluations, reflect the level at which a person can communicate in the language tested in. The Institute requires tests or scores taken with in the last 24 months.

Please answer the following questions

Are you aware that there is a first and second language proficiency needed for the MA programs?(Required)

Yes

For an applicant from English-speaking countries, successfully passed:
English as first or second language at High School level (Grade 12), submit Grade 12 certificate, or
An equivalent to High School level, submit a transcript indicating three years of English, or

Without Grade 12 at High School Level, submit a letter stating exposure or experience at work or other studies in English,

For an applicant from non-English speaking countries, successfully passed:
Submit a language test, examples are CAEL, Cambridge English Test, Duolingo Language Test+, EAP, IELTS (International English Language Testing System) Academic Level, Pearson Test of English Academic, TOEFL (Test of English as Foreign Language). The test must indicate the scale used to measure the proficiency, example, novice, intermediate, advanced, or
An equivalent to High School level, submit a transcript indicating three years of English, or

Without Grade 12 at High School Level, submit a letter stating exposure or experience at work or other studies in English,

or a deaf applicant using a sign-language:
a written curriculum vitae, or equivalent, in language of wider communication, with a translated copy in English,
a letter detailing exposure and experience in hearing world at work and, or studies,

a letter from the applicant’s sending agency, or congregation, or pastor, or supervisor, confirming sign language ability and, or proficiency.

The interviewer explained to the applicant the requirement as per the policy?(Required)

Yes

And for deaf applicants?(Required)

Yes

Have you learned any other language as an adult?(Required)

Yes

Please list that language:

Knowledge of the Bible

Please answer the following questions:

Are you aware that applicants must have a general, working knowledge of the historical, geographical, and cultural background of the Bible. This knowledge should include how to access and use the supplementary resources such as dictionaries, concordances, and biblical atlases?(Required)

Yes

Will you be able to answer general questions on the Bible?(Required)

Yes

What can you provide us to show that you have this competency?(Required)

Degree

Bible School certificate or diploma

Other

Bible Translation

The following questions relate to your involvement (or prospective involvement) in Bible translation.

Are you involved, or been involved, in Bible translation?(Required)

Yes

Scripture portions?(Required)

Yes

New Testament?(Required)

Yes

Old Testament?(Required)

Yes

What is or was your role of involvement?

Translator?

Exegete?

Project Facilitator?

Consultant-in-training?

Trainer?

Please confirm the details of the consultant mentor under Organisation/Agency.

Name of Language of the project/s?

Country/Region where it is?

If you have not been involved in Bible translation, what is your goal for involvement?

I would like to become:

Translator?

Exegete?

Project Facilitator?

Consultant-in-training?

Trainer?

Note to the interviewer:
Before participating in the MA CHTC program, applicants must have a designated consultant mentor and should be able to present a full growth plan towards being credentialed as a consultant.

Please confirm the details of the consultant mentor under Organisation/Agency.

I have summited my consultant-in-training growth plan with my application?(Required)

Yes

If not, are you aware that you can only be fully accepted into the MA CHTC program if you have met the requirement?(Required)

Yes

If not, when will you submit it?

For Trainer:

The following questions relate to your access to software used in Bible translation.

For the Consultant courses (fourth semester) and specialisations for OBT and SLT, you will need access to following software, please indicate if you have:

Paratext?(Required)

Yes

Logos?(Required)

Yes

Translators Workplace?(Required)

Yes

Accordance (an alternative to Logos)?(Required)

Yes

Audacity (OBT) (OBT applicants only)?(Required)

Yes

Or Render (OBT) (OBT applicants only)?(Required)

Yes

SLTT (SLT) (SLT applicants only)(Required)

Yes

If, NO to any of the above, please confirm that you will acquire it prior to acceptance into the MA CHTC?(Required)

Yes

Statement of Faith

Applicants need to indicate their agreement with the Lausanne Covenant, available here: https://lausanne.org/statement/lausanne-covenant

Have you read the Lausanne Covenant?(Required)

Yes

Do you agree with it?(Required)

Yes

If you have not read it, when will you?(Required)

Moral Integrity and Interpersonal demeanour

Interview explained to that it is required of all applicants to act with moral integrity and interpersonal demeanour. Integrity is the quality of having strong moral principles (concerning what is right and wrong behaviour) and uncompromisingly adhering to it. The interviewer needs to explain to the applicant what this means and implies.

Interviewer explained the above?(Required)

Yes

Applicant had questions?(Required)

Yes

Questions addressed by the interviewer?(Required)

Yes

Organisation or Agency

The interviewer needs to explain to the applicant that Whole Word Institute requires the applicant’s organization to support him/her in attending the program/s of Whole Word Institute. The support does not necessarily mean financial support, but an interest in the student being with Whole Word Institute for the necessary time and allowing that time off from other responsibilities. Whole Word Institute will sign a memorandum of understanding with their organisation for the training. While in the Whole Word Institute program, students must also comply with the requirements set by their organisation.

Please confirm:

Name of Organisation/Agency(Required)

Supervisor/Manager(Required)

Country/countries presence

Country

Country dialling & mobile number

Work email address

Note: the above need to be completed by Academic Administration but verified by the interviewer.

Please answer the following questions:

Is your supervisor/manager supporting you in your interest you expressed in Whole Word Institute’s programs?(Required)

Yes

Will your organisation/agency release you to be fully engaged in Whole Word Institute’s full-time program/s?(Required)

Yes

Are you currently, or in the next year, involved signed-up for any other programs (e.g., Bachelor, MA, Doctorate, workshops). If, then specify:(Required)

Yes

Do you have any work assignments for the next year?(Required)

Yes

If then specify:

Note: The interviewer has to clarify that the programs are very intensive, it is full-time and that it is a policy that students cannot be involved in any other studies and/or work-related duties. Failure to adhere to this requirement can lead to expulsion from the program/s.

Family

Please answer the following questions:

Is your family supporting your interest to take this program/s?(Required)

Yes

Will any of your immediate family join you?(Required)

Yes

If yes, then please indicate:

Spouse

Children

Also, will any participate in the program/s?(Required)

Yes

Auditing? (explain to applicant if needed)

Spouse

Children

Full participation? (explain to applicant if needed)

Spouse

Children

If your immediate family joins you in the program, please indicate how you will finance their expenses related to it?

Equipment needed for the programs

Please answer the following questions:

Do you have a personal computer (not the organisation’s computer which may not be accessible)?

Yes

The interviewer explained to the applicant that he/she should have access to this computer even for the pre-requisite courses.

If, no, then what are your plans to have a computer to use?

The interviewer explained to the applicant that a tablet/iPad/phone will not be sufficient to use before/during the program?

Yes

Financial Plan

Please answer the following questions:

The interviewer clarified to the scholarship does not cover flight tickets, medical insurance, pocket money, and the books fee ($500), but only tuition and living costs.

The interviewer explained to the applicant that Whole Word Institute does not cover the cost of the internship in the field, which may include travel, accommodation, food and more. And that their organisation will be responsible for it?

Are you aware that living cost is expensive in Israel?

Yes

The interviewer explained to the applicant that it is better to bring as much of your personal items needed with, instead of buying it in Israel.

How will you pay for the program?

My organisation will be responsible for all tuition fees

I will be personally responsible for all tuition fees

The tuition fees will be covered partially by me and partially by my organisation

I applied for scholarship

If, then date of application?

The interviewer explained to the applicant that:

The criteria of eligibility for consultants-in-training?

The scholarship will be decided upon by Whole Word Institute’s Scholarship committee and that they will communicate it on a future date after the successful granting of acceptance or provisional acceptance?

My scholarship has been approved

Yes

If, then date of approval?

The interviewer clarified/explained to the applicant in the MA CHTC that the scholarship is:

only for tuition and living expenses and is primarily for a Bible translator/consultant-in-training,

linked to work-study agreement of the equivalent of 36 full-time work weeks (part time and can be completed in the service of any Bible translation organization. The internship is not calculated as part of the work-study), and

partial scholarship

Other

Please specify?

Medical History

Please answer the following questions about your medical history:

Have you completed the Medical History Form?

Yes

Are you aware that you need to be in good physical and mental health and cognitive function to be able to attend classes, field trips and to complete intensive courses?

Yes

Are you aware that you must carry local Israeli health insurance which covers you for your time of study in Israel, including repatriation whenever required, and that the Institute provides the necessary health insurance at an extra fee for each applicant.

Yes

Do you have any pre-existing medical conditions?

Yes

Are you aware that with pre-existing health conditions (examples include, but is not limited to Celiac disease, epilepsy, heart conditions, mobile disability, visually impaired) you will need a special waiver from the local Israeli health insurance.

Yes

Have you, as well as your organisation/agency, signed the acknowledgement which indemnifies the Institute of any cost associated, or repatriation of you, or responsibility, in case you cannot continue with your studies due pre-existing health condition?

Yes

Are you aware that you need to bring your prescription for any pre-existing medical condition with you to the program?

Yes

The interviewer explained the infectious disease policy to the applicant?

Yes

Dietary Needs

Please answer the following questions regarding your dietary needs:

Do you have any special dietary needs?

Yes

If, then please provide details:

Are you aware that your digestive system may need adjustment to the new cuisine available in another country and that this can lead to initial digestive issues?

Yes

The interviewer explained to the applicant that the Institute can accommodate limited special needs, but there might not be a wide variety available, and that the Institute may not be able to cater for very specific needs.

Visa

The interviewer explains the following to the applicant

After the final acceptance of a prospective candidate, Academic Services applies for a student visa from Israel.

Yes

The applicant needs to submit all the requested visa documents on time and stay in touch with Academic Services

Yes

After the visa is approved, the prospective student needs to go to the nearest Embassy of Israel in or close to their home country to receive the visa stamp in his/her passport.

Yes

Weather

Please answer the following questions:

Are you aware of the weather and seasons in Jerusalem which will be different than your home country?

Yes

The interviewer explained to the applicant that it can be very warm in summer, but also very cold in winter with snow, and that it is important for the applicant to bring both summer and winter clothes like coat, long sleeves, and more?

The interviewer explained to the applicant the clothing policy of Whole Word Institute, both in the dorms and in classes?

Questions of the Applicant

Do you have any other questions?

Yes

Write down the Questions and Answer given

Interviewer:

Name

Surname

Date

Type of Interview

In person

Via Zoom/MS Teams