Tuesday, April 20, 2010

Tips for Choosing Spanish Immersion Courses

If you would like to learn Spanish, the most effective way is to take a Spanish language immersion course. Not only will you be involved in traditional classroom learning, many schools require that you also live with a Spanish speaking family in order to have total exposure to the language throughout your stay. In this way you will be learning the language the natural way, living it every day from waking until sleep. There is a vast array of immersion language courses available, most in Spanish speaking countries but several programs can be found in the United States. To find the perfect program that best suits you, follow the following advice and tips.

If you would like to travel abroad for the Spanish immersion language course, one consideration may be expense. Look to Guatemala or Honduras for the least expensive courses as these countries are poorer and have a lower cost of living. Weekly costs here can be under $150 which includes 15 to 20 hours of individual instruction per week. Your stay will be in a modest home with a local family and expect classrooms to be rather old fashion and not equipped with the latest technology.

Quality of instruction may vary from school to school so be sure to research thoroughly on sites that have reviews from students who have studied at the schools you are considering. The most expensive courses are available in Spain or large colonial cities in Mexico, Venezuela and elsewhere. These courses may be specifically for businessmen, medical personnel or other professionals. Your stay may be in luxurious hotels or with a wealthy family. Classrooms and instruction will be of consistently higher quality. You may want to research local attractions before choosing a program. This will allow you to travel and experience more of the culture of the area. If you plan to take your children, find out of the program accommodates all ages.

Another consideration is whether you desire university credit for the course. There are numerous websites that can help you find the exact course that will fit your needs. There are many services located in the United States that can find a program that fits your needs and make the arrangements for you. You may find the additional expense, sometimes as low as $50, worth it as these service providers are fluent in the language and can help you with problems that may arise. By doing research and following these tips, you can be confident that your choice of a Spanish language immersion course will not only allow you to swiftly learn the language, but will be an experience of a lifetime.

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