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method |
We have been active for more than a decade in the domain of languages and see in our
success a confirmation of our methodology. We take advantage of the experience gathered
in our courses, to optimize our method continuously. In the course of time, several base
characteristics of our activities have emerged:
- We work in small groups, because this enhances the effectiveness of our language
courses. Groups comprise mostly 5-6 studens, in seldom cases the group sizes exceed
8-10 people. In addition, we organize courses for smaller groups (3-4 students),
as well as individual courses.
- We organize our courses both at the customer's location -- as in-house trainings --
and in our rooms.
- The clear structure of the learining process leads to course transparency. On the
other hand, the work plan is flexible, and adapted to the needs of the students on
a per-case basis.
- Our courses are divided into modules, which correspond to the level of the students.
The module size depends on the goals of the course; the usual size of a module is
30 course hours.
- We employ a broad range of materials -- on the one hand, standard works, such as
"Lernziel Deutsch", on the other hand, our own materials.
- All our courses are supported by audio (CDs, cassettes); in certain situations -
e.g., in advanced courses - video technique is used, also.
- As part of certain courses, we offer special classes, e.g., in "German as a Foreign
Language" (Intermediate level) we organize a visit to the town, where the students
can apply what they have learned and use their knowledge to cope with real-life
situations.
- The learning speed depends on the level of the group and on the progress it makes.
Our top priority are the results at the end of a course, rather than checking a
list of items in a given time frame.
- The explanations in a course are being delivered in the studied language itself;
the use of an "explanatory language" (e.g., English in German courses) is reduced
to a minimum.
- Students are encouraged to participate actively in classes. They should use the
chance of practicing with the group as often as possible.
- On the other hand, even the most intensive course does not free from self study,
nor from the need to consolidate one's knowledge. This is why students should be
active outside of the classes, too: review the materials, do their homework, and
even use the foreign language in every-day situations, if possible.
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