Interested in learning the second most popular language in the world? Want to know exactly how an immersion program works? Find out why immersion programs are the best way to learn Spanish.
Language is the primary vehicle of communication for human beings. There are quite a few ways of learning a new language. The eventual aim of these methods should be to make the learner proficient not only in reading and writing but he should be able to express himself in a language. It is only when you develop the ability to think in a language that you can consider yourself having learnt the language in full. Spanish as a language is gaining world wide popularity. In fact it is only second to English. Many people are now attempting to learn the language and many new ways of learning the language have been developed. Out of all of these modes of learning immersion programs have proved out to be most effective.
Immersion programs are different from other language learning courses in the respect that all the instruction is done in the language that is being learnt, which in this case is Spanish. Hence the only thing a student gets to hear and see is the language that he is seeking to learn. Immersion programs are bound to be successful because you are using the language in your studies. Another way to say that would be that you will be studying in Spanish to learn Spanish. The use of English is restricted and it can only be used in dire circumstances when it is absolutely necessary.
The benefits of an immersion program
The proficiency level of the student increases at great speed with an immersion program when compared to other types of study programs. The benefits are manifold if you immerse yourself in a Spanish community. This will give you the added assistance of the Spanish culture and cuisine that is around you. These are some of the benefits that one can never have while studying from home. Many immersion courses are held in Latin America and Spain itself. In fact the number of immersion courses being offered today is quite likely to overwhelm an individual looking for an appropriate immersion program. Another trend in immersion programs is to stay with a Spanish speaking family that will give you the exposure to Spanish style family life and you will be a part of that life. By eating with the family and taking part in other local events you will get the chance to witness Spanish culture first hand.
There are certain things that a seeker of a Spanish immersion programs should consider before making the final choice. The number of people in a class is an important factor to consider in an immersion program. Most schools have an upper limit of six students per class but if you believe you need personal attention you can easily opt for one on one instruction. The best deal is to use these two methods in combination. The group studies will improve your communication skills in Spanish whereas the individual studies will let you focus on your main areas of concern. Most of the schools that offer Spanish language immersion programs have standard as well as intensive courses so the potential student has the freedom to choose whichever program best suites his needs.
