You have decided you want to learn to speak a foreign language, or perhaps your job requires it. You look around and there are several options in terms of language programs. Should you chose one for its convenient location? For its price? Because it offers fast or accelerated learning?
Is it in my price range?
A very important consideration when choosing a language school or a language program is whether it represents a burden or an investment to you. Often my students complain about the tuition fees, the cost of books and parking. I do a simple cost analysis together with them. I begin by asking what they generally like to do for fun on the weekends. Most answer that they like to eat out and go to clubs, or to eat in and have friends over and watch a movie. Then we look at how much that costs them. The cost of studying a second language should be comparable to one or two weekend-outings. You can sacrifice one or two weekends, and stay home in order to be able to afford paying for language classes. But you do not want to go out of your budget.
What does the fee include?
Make sure you understand what the fee includes. Many fees do not include parking, or books, these are on you. However, there is usually a lending library, and many times the fees should cover it.
Do I feel comfortable in class?
Once you are in a language school you want consider whether you feel comfortable enough in class to where you trust the learning process, and feel that the exercises, homework, etc is actually helping you learn. On the other hand, you do not want to feel so comfortable that you and your classmates are not really learning anything. For real learning to occur, there has to be a conscious breach of your comfort zone, hopefully by yourself as a learner, and encouraged by the program and the teachers.
Are the classes in the target language only?
A sure way to accelerate learning and insure progressive success in proficiency or being able to use the language is to speak the language in class as much as possible. And out of class too! It has been shown that teachers who use the target language exclusively—or almost exlusively with their students have a higher rate of success at becoming fluent in the language, in a shorter time and the assimilation is more long lasting.
A little soul searching
Remember that you are in no obligation to stay at any one language program if you do not feel that it is helping you reach your goal. Learning a second language is highly rewarding, both personally and professionally. However, at some point you have to consider why you are interested in studying a second language, and what your level of commitment is. There are some who seek a second language as a means for professional advancement or promotion. Others want to speak a foreign language as a hobby or to make friends. There are also those who study other languages to satisfy intellectual curiosity. Still others want to rediscover their roots or family heritage. Of course many people feel a combination of the above motivations, and you may have another entirely different one yourself. Keeping this in mind will help you stay focused and remain aware of the benefits you get from your sacrifice and hard work.
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