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Finding the Right Program for YOU
When deciding on a language travel
program, you should ask yourself three
questions:
- What type of atmosphere do I want?
- How long can I study?
- What type of instruction do I want?
Atmosphere
AmeriSpan believes atmosphere is the key
ingredient in the overall learning
recipe. If you are comfortable where you
are studying then you will learn. What
do you desire? Big cities, small
colonial towns, large families, families
with no kids, private rooms, particular
food, nature, beaches, ruins, night-life
or quiet? AmeriSpan has partner schools
in many different cities and countries
to insure that you can find the perfect
setting to learn and enjoy.
How Long
The golden rule is to stay as many weeks
as possible but don't study too many
hours/day. Generally, beginning students
can expect to develop moderate fluency
in 2-4 months depending on many factors
(for example atmosphere, method of
instruction, homestay versus hotel,
previous preparation in Spanish,
previous experience with a second
language, motivation, etc.)
Most people will learn faster
studying 4-6 hours/day versus 8
hours/day because their brains stay
fresh. If your brain gets tired, you are
going to get confused. Many 8 hr/day
students acquaint themselves with many
aspects of Spanish but never really
learn much. If you need to learn fast
and only have a few weeks, look for
programs that use a variety of teaching
techniques. AmeriSpan's Executive
Intensive Programs were specially
designed to use a variety of techniques
to keep the brain fresh.
Method of Instruction
AmeriSpan's Spanish immersion programs
offer either one-on-one Instruction or
small group instruction. Either method
is more intensive than typical Spanish
classes offered at universities, high
schools and private Spanish centers in
your home country. Generally,
instruction is in Spanish which allows
you to begin using the language from day
one. Many institutes that offer group
instruction as their main program also
offer one-on-one instruction; we
recommend combining both methods. This
allows you to develop your speaking and
listening skills, as well as, devote
more time to your unique needs. If your
chosen program doesn't allow you to
combine both methods, why not combine
two programs. Remember, AmeriSpan
students can mix and match programs in
different countries or cities.
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