Learning a language creates countless opportunities; better career opportunities and a better understanding of the world around you. But how do you maximize your experience of learning a language? One of the best ways to enhance your skills in life is to choose to go to language school abroad. You get the full experience of a language, combined with the safe opportunity to deal with the culture associated with it! Cultivating that connection with the culture you are learning is important to sending you to the next level of any language experience.
Why Choose a Language School Abroad?
1. Complete Immersion
One of the greatest benefits of foreign language immersion classes is immersion. When you are surrounded by native speakers and must use the language every day, your progress will increase by leaps and bounds. In the classroom, you’re learning grammar, vocabulary, and speaking strategies, and then outside the classroom you will be using what you learned in various situations. At a local café, when you order food and pay the bill; or when you navigate public transportation; or even chat with a local as they watch you interact with the locals. Using the language on a daily basis will allow you to increase your learning from living the life of a local.
2. Cultural Exposure
Language and culture always go hand-in-hand. If you learn culture, you will better understand the nuances of the language you are learning and will speak it much more naturally. Language schools abroad will not just teach you vocabulary or grammar—they will also touch on culture. It can be through formal classes, or more casually with engaging in the local culture through local traditions, events, or cuisine that you taste. Cultural exposure adds further dimensions to your learning experience, and you will be better for it!
3. Individualized Learning Environment
Studying abroad will probably give you a more direct learning experience. Language schools abroad have smaller classes, more direct teaching methodologies, and are more accommodating of one-to-one teaching and learning with qualified professional educators, and facilitators. This allows you to focus on your own learning and practice direct areas of development. In addition, many schools offer flexible learning schedules to meet your needs.
4. Accreditation and Certification Programs
A number of international language training schools are accredited by recognized educational authorities so you may rest assured you will be provided with a quality education. Furthermore, these schools develop their programs according to systematically recognized curriculum frameworks meaning that you will be learning towards a standardized and globally accepted outcome. If you were looking for official language certifications such as the DELF for French, DELE for Spanish and IELTS for English, many overseas language schools are also hubs for test preparation programs which can be immensely valuable if you are working towards a qualification.
5. Socializing and Networking
It is not all about academics or just language learning when studying abroad. Joining a language school abroad will also give you an opportunity to meet other people from around the world and you will have a chance to practice with classmates and also locals. If the language school participates in social activities, tours, and cultural activities, you will have even more opportunities to network, make friends, and practice the language.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Language School
When selecting the right language school, you need to consider a few important factors to ensure you get the most out of your experience:
1. Location
The location of the school is important; think about whether you want to learn in a big city where a host of happenings, activities, and sites are within reach, or a town which is quieter so that you can focus more on the activity of learning. Also consider local culture and the surrounding environment. For example, if you are studying French, do you want to study in Paris, with its bustling urban culture, or a seaside, sleepy southern France town?
2. Accreditation and Reputation
Be sure to check accreditation and reputation. Be sure to select a school that is recognized for its quality language instruction. Read reviews from former students or look for partnerships with universities to confirm the school is credible. The better language schools often employ very qualified teachers, have organized programs, and provide good learning materials.
3. Curriculum and Teaching Style
Explore the school’s curriculum and teaching approach. Some schools put more emphasis on conversation and practical use of language, whereas other schools prioritize grammar and reading comprehension. As you research, discover which of these approaches is in line with your best learning style. If you are much more interested in a more participatory experience, schools with conversational practice and extra classroom activities will be of more interest.
4. Class Size and Qualifications of Teacher
Smaller class size is generally going to provide better attention and a larger opportunity for you to practice speaking. Part of your researching the school is to check the qualifications of teachers. Most accredited language schools have native speaking teachers, who are either certified to teach a foreign language, or, are certified in education with foreign language training. Qualified and experienced teachers can help guide your learning in a more effective manner providing you a more fulfilling learning experience.
5. Cost and Accommodation Options
Going abroad can be expensive, so be sure you’re considering costs of living, accommodations, tuition, and any additional costs for activities or excursions associated with the language school. Some language schools offer housing via host families and/or student apartments to enhance an immersion experience.
Top Language Schools Around the World
Here are some leading language schools in various regions of the world known for their quality:
1. EF International Language Campuses (Various locations internationally)
EF is arguably the most recognizable language school chain in the world as they offer programs in more languages than just English and have schools worldwide, including in the UK, USA, France, and Spain. They provide a fully immersive learning environment and take students from beginner level to advanced, even a course in preparing for a language exam.
2. Alliance Française (France and Internationally)
Did you want to learn French? If so, it is difficult to go past Alliance Française. Located in cities around the world, Alliance is known for its comprehensive French programs. The lessons they deliver are offered in practical contexts and are highly aware of the cultural context in which the language takes place. Whatever your reason (travel, work or study), Alliance Française assures good teaching and real culture.
3. Cervantes Institute (Spain and Globally)
If you want to learn Spanish, the Cervantes Institute is the best option. They have centres in Spain and all over the world offering courses that provide effective language learning through grammar, writing and speaking mastery. Their programs are certified worldwide and they provide courses for every level of familiarity with the language.
4. Goethe-Institut (Germany and Globally)
The Goethe-Institut is one of the best organisations for learning the German language and culture. The institute has centres in Germany, and all over the world, that provide quality language courses with certification. If you want to be fluent in the German language, and also want to learn the culture, this is a fantastic avenue to pursue.
5. Kaplan International (Various Destinations Worldwide).
Kaplan is one of the most popular organisations for taking English abroad. Kaplan has schools in places like the UK, US, Canada and Australia and they have a diverse selection of courses tailored to your goals – from general courses to preparing students for the IELTS, TOEFL, and Cambridge English exams.
Conclusion
Choosing a language school abroad is a life-changing decision that can significantly enhance your language skills and cultural understanding. By carefully considering the location, school reputation, teaching style, and your personal learning goals, you can find the perfect school that will help you improve your language proficiency. Whether you’re learning English in the UK, French in France, or Spanish in Spain, studying abroad gives you the ultimate immersive experience that will not only improve your language skills but also broaden your horizons and open doors to new opportunities. So, why wait? Start planning your language-learning adventure today.
