The best way to develop conversation and reading skills en español is to immerse yourself where the language is spoken.
There are many schools in Spain that teach Spanish via an immersion experience. This is highly recommended as a way to learn a living language as well as the culture of our world neighbors.
The following are the answers to the most popular and frequently asked student questions:
WHY SHOULD I STUDY ABROAD?
There are two good reasons. 1) You want to learn about another country. 2) You wish to be comfortable speaking and understanding the Spanish language. Experiential learning is fun and immersion learning -- using the language outside the classroom -- is an effective way to aquire new skills.
WHAT LEVEL OF LANGUAGE SKILLS DO I NEED?
Schools offer programs at all levels, from beginners to more advanced levels with specialized skills.
HOW LONG DO COURSES LAST?
Courses can last from one day to several months. Most schools encourage students to take at least three weeks of classes for maximum benefit.
WHERE SHOULD I STUDY?
You decide! Since there are so many schools, the decision of where to go may seem overwhelming.
Choose the country first where you'd like to learn. Then choose by the city. Get recommendations from friends, write or call the school directly for details.
WHAT ARE CHARACTERISTICS OF A GOOD LANGUAGE SCHOOL?
Two words: personal attention. You don't want to be treated like a number. That said, most schools also have an established "program." They have been in the business of teaching Spanish longer than you have had in learning the language! Better schools offer cultural outings as well as a library or book exchange and bulletin board. In other words, they offer immersion into the local environs as well as the language.
Some of my favorite schools donate a percentage of their income to social projects and offer the students an opportunity to volunteer or link up with projects in the host country. Another good sign are original study materials, which the student can use to learn as well as brush up on the language after returning home.
WHAT SHOULD I EXPECT TO LEARN?
This depends on your commitment and eagerness to learn the language. At least, you'll be better prepared for your travels. "Menu Spanish" is a perfect one-day workshop. If you want to devote more time, you'll have a greater command of the Spanish language. As with other things in life, you'll get out of the experience what you put into it.
WHERE DO I LIVE?
Many schools offer home stays with local families. You can also arrange your own lodging or choose to live in an apartment or hotel. Consult a guidebook to get a good idea of what lodging typically costs.
SHOULD I LIVE WITH A FAMILY?
If you wish to immerse yourself, live with a family.
WHAT DO I NEED TO TAKE?
If you are combining education with travel, make sure you cover the bases. Bring the appropriate clothes, travel necessities (camera, guidebooks, medicine) and a bilingual dictionary.
HOW DO I KNOW IF A SCHOOL IS RIGHT FOR ME?
Select a school on how well it appeals to you. If you are skeptical, you can also ask for recommendations. Most schools are willing to give you the email addresses of students.
A school's word of mouth reputation is worth more than all of the advertising in the world. If you have any doubts, don't commit yourself to more than a week of classes. If you can, visit the school and talk with the teachers and students.
The best advice is to let the director of the school and your teacher know what you'd like to accomplish - whether it's survival Spanish or if you have more specific goals. They will be happy to accommodate your needs if you let them know your needs.WHAT IS NOT
INCLUDED IN THE PROGRAM FEE?
Program fees to not include transportation, visas and departure taxes |