Alice Mitchell 1942 – 2010
- Creative linguist, learning media developer and pedagogue,
- Head of Language Centre at Anglia Polytechnic University
- Unique Ultranaut
- Dedicated wife to Colin Babbs
- Informal, enthusiastic tutor to my son
- Personal friend
- Favourite remembered saying: “half the time in English we mispronounce French and the other half, German”
Alice’s work in the middle nineties to develop language learning multimedia material and virtual spaces for language learning was a decade ahead of its time – Alice was an unusual mix of imaginative ideas and perfection in detail who understood ‘delight’ and made every attempt to foreground affect in her designs. Sorely missed doesn’t really say it.
Elle ne s’en ira pas, elle ne redescendra pas d’un ciel, elle n’accomplira pas la rédemption des colères de femmes et des gaîtés des hommes et de tout ce péché: car c’est fait, lui étant, et étant aimée.
(from Rimbaud)
Very sad news but a wonderful response Richard.
I will remember her as a true lady who always gave her time willingly to colleagues. A formidable intellect and an uplifting smile.
Very very sad news 🙁 At Ultralab Alice knew what she was doing, and knew how to do what she was doing well… Thoughts with Colin & Family.. 🙁
Fond memories of Alice at Ultralab with her calm, professional air of patience and kindness.
I almost can’t believe it… I didn’t know Alice nearly as well as some, but spent my first Christmas party for Ultralab sat with her and Colin, where she made me feel very welcome. Alice was as much a part of the Lab as anything could be. Her cheerful comments in ‘First Class’ were fun and yet testament to her eternally positive character. Go well, Alice.
Really sad news. I’d echo the thoughts of Shirley, I always remember Alice for her kindness and creativity.
Incredibly sad news that ‘one of us’ has passed. A true friend, supportive and positive colleague, as well as being very extremely determined in everything she did. Thoughts are with Colin and family.