Showing posts with label class. Show all posts
Showing posts with label class. Show all posts

Monday, 17 February 2014

Some of the English courses I've taught in Canada

In case you were wondering, here is a list of English courses I've taught at the University of Alberta and the Cultural Connections Institute in Edmonton:

  • Level 1 English: course for complete beginners
  • Level 5 English: last course of the intensive English program at the UofA
  • English for Academic Purposes: preparation to being a student at a North-American university
  • Petroleum English: a course specially designed by myself for English training for a group of petroleum engineers
  • Conversational English
  • Canadian Culture Seminar
  • Pre-Intermediate English
  • Advanced English
I have the education and the experience to help you with you English training needs. Get in touch today!

Saturday, 18 January 2014

What is the ideal English class size?

How do you prefer to study? Individually, in pairs, in small or large groups? Which setting do you find the most efficient and fun? These questions are important to grasp in any learning situation, but they gain additional meaning when we talk about language classes, such as those for English as a Second Language (ESL).

Some people find it hard to study completely alone, and this is especially understandable when one studies a foreign language. Grammar and phonetics can, to a certain extent, be mastered without interaction with others, but true freedom in a language comes through talking with fellow learners, discussions of a variety of topics and responding to the thoughts and ideas that come up in such conversations. "Interaction with others" should not, however, be understood as being in groups of 15 or 25 people - this is not at all conducive to successfully learning English or any other language.

This is why I would personally recommend a class size of no more than 10 people (if possible, no more than six). In a multicultural environment such as Canada, there would no doubt be a great mix of professions, hobbies and heritages in a group of this size, which would allow for wonderful discussions. At the same time, the group would not be too large to be too noisy and difficult to manage for the instructor. Every student's questions and concerns would then be addressed promptly and adequately.

If you want to have rapid progress in your English, I would suggest starting with one-on-one classes with a professional and experienced instructor fluent in the language. This way, you can quickly set up the base of your grammar, vocabulary, pronunciation, and build up confidence to talk with others. Get in touch today to discuss details!

Friday, 17 January 2014

Learn English with an experienced professional

I'm happy to offer individual and group classes in English conversation, grammar, writing, reading and listening skills, and cultural awareness. With over 10 years of teaching experience at the university and college level, I can customize the lessons to your needs, so you make the most of every class. Contact me today to discuss details!

I can be reached at medvcom@gmail.com or by phone at 780-222-7136.