by Annarella Perra, This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it
On the World Wide Web are many resources for Latin and Ancient Greek but a very curious and interesting resource is the Latin Chat (Locutorium Latinum) created by Circulus Latinus Panormitanus (CLP) at http://www.cirlapa.org/cgi-bin/locutorium/chat.cgi, the only Chat exclusively in Latin. The whole website is written in Latin, including all texts, instructions and communications from the CLP Webmaster or the Chat Moderator.
This exists as an example of total Latin immersion, whereby communication is made in real time with people from all countries who want talk in the Latin language. It also provides a valid way for Classics teachers to encourage dialogue with other teachers or any persons keen on Latin and it offers a wonderful way to integrate ICT and Classics teaching. It gives a new and different style of teaching, by inviting students to practise Latin vocabulary, with personal descriptions and comments. All levels of the language can be used, from literary language to "sermo vulgaris": there is always someone willing to hold a discussion.
What equipment do we need? This is simple. Only a PC connected to the Internet is required, with a browser and some time to write, because this communication is based on writing.

CLP offers a valid online service: the graphic interface is well developed and intuitive as we can see from the attached Locutorium images. In order to participate in Locutorium, individuals must first register with their details. The 'Agnomen' box asks for a nickname and the 'Signum arcanum' box for a password. In the box at the bottom we can see the connected users.

After accessing Locutorium, we see a page with frames. The left side is dedicated to messages users can read, while the area on the right shows all connected users. The bottom area presents one field in which we can write our words, one check box in which to select a mood "Vultum elige" (stupor, tristitia, risus etc.) where we can choose from 'emoticons' and one box "Ad omnes" in which we can select to whom send our messages.
This is a website to test - and we suggest you do so.  Optime valete, nautae.