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We use the communicative approach.
The communicative approach is based on the following theory of how Language is acquired.
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According to psycholinguists information that is learned first goes into our short term memory storage. They believe that is stays for up to 1 hour there which is why people believe that they understand what they have learned during the class. If the knowledge is not then stimulated to be used after this period it disappears. In a communicative class the material is presented and practiced with creative, task-based learning activities. These activities are designed to stimulate the transference from the short term to long term memory of the participant. This means that each student must actively participate in their own learning by the teacher offering activities which facilitate this transfer such as discussions,
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roleplays, problem solving exercises and small group activities. In large groups this cannot be as effective as small groups which is why we prefer to work with small groups. The teachers constantly encourage accuracy and pronunciation during these activities and are trained to correct mistakes without losing the confidence of the student.
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We also believe in the natural approach to language learning where it is through every day situations that students build connections between concepts, vocabulary and syntax. We encourage our students to attend courses in the country of the language they are studying to help them with this aspect of learning where they can realistically practice what they have learned in a real-life situation.
Our ultimate aim is that the student will achieve the intuitive level of learning where language use is no longer a conscious act but an intuitive one such as driving a car or swimming. Once we have mastered the basics our body no longer thinks about what must be done to do the activity but it does them automatically. The Communicative methodology integrated with the best aspects of other approaches is an essential part of our teaching philosophy.
We also take into account what type of learner each individual student is. Some people are visual learners, some are oral, some need diagrams or role play to really grasp the point the teacher is trying to make. Whatever your style our teachers are trained to recognise and ask the correct questions to ascertain your learning style then teach accordingly. If you do not know what type of learner you are just stop to think for a minute how you understand things you are taught.
Do you remember people’s names easily when you are told them? You are probably an oral learner and will respond well to a tape course or telephone lessons.
Do you have a photographic memory? You will probably benefit from a classroom course as you will struggle to learn if you do not have a visual support.
Do you draw diagrams to help you understand difficult concepts? You will also benefit from a classroom based course as you will see ideas, concepts and grammar drawn for you in a way you understand.
There is a reason that we cannot always say on our website which would be the best course for you, you are an individual, we are experts at what we do, let us advise you to help you make the right decision on you training for you.
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