Linguist Myriam Met describes three goals of language immersion: to develop a high level of language proficiency in the target language, to foster positive attitudes for those who speak the language and to develop language skills commensurate with the expectations for a student’s age and abilities. At ESL, we would add a couple of our own, for example having a memorable experience while making friends from around the world.
Finding the right language immersion programme for your individual needs can be more challenging than you might imagine. One of our roles at ESL is to ensure that our clients find the destination and programme that is perfect for their individual needs. In a 2007 paper, researchers Kwortnik and Ross found that tourists experience a variety of positive emotions such as comfort and pleasure while planning holidays and we are here further improve the experience. The range of destinations and courses on offer can be bewildering, but feedback from our students confirms that ESL’s staff are “very helpful” and “attentive”.
Italian course in Italy? Photo: Alex Hammond
We offer courses in more than 220 destinations around the world, designed for a wide range of learners, from busy business executives to gap year students. Because each programme is personalised, you know you will get the package that is right for you.
To illustrate the huge variety we offer, here are some examples of enquiries that we get at our international drop-in offices, and some programmes that might fit the request:
“I need to improve my business English but have little time. I spend all my time in major cities and would love some peace and quiet!”
How about a stay at Trebinshun House in Brecon, Wales? When our team visited last year to sample an executive English course, they were very impressed by the attention to detail and professionalism. Because of its location, Trebinshun House offers an experience that is somewhere between a language course – the small group/one-to-one tuition is exceptional – and a stay at a spa. The lush, surrounding countryside is serene, and the ideal place to get away from the stresses of office life.
“I have spent all my life in my small town. I am fed up with seeing the same faces every day and want to get out there into a world metropolis to improve my English once I finish school”
London, New York, Sydney… take your pick! We offer courses in all of the world’s major cities, but remember that the cost of living in big cities is usually much higher than in smaller towns. With this in mind, our team can help you find the best value, by advising on exchange rates, typical rents and our regular special offers. We would also encourage you to look at some destinations that combine a big city buzz with great value, for example Liverpool and its neighbours in Northern England.
“It’s my gap year and I want to travel in Latin America”
Your experience will be greatly improved if you can speak Spanish. How about starting your trip with three weeks of Spanish classes in a cool city like Buenos Aires? You will meet travellers from all over the world and develop a strong foundation in the language, which will then let you communicate all over the continent. Or if you are starting in the north of the continent, Panama is superb for surfing, studying and exploring the rainforest.
Remember that a gap year is the perfect opportunity to develop your CV and spend time working towards something you are passionate about; you could consider a local internship or volunteering programme, while learning Spanish to a very high level.
“My company recently won a big contract with a Chinese client. I need to improve my Chinese skills fast and get to know Chinese culture”
For 24-hour cultural immersion, we would strongly recommend a course “at the teacher’s home”. Available all over China (and in other languages/countries), the programme is tailored to your personal needs, so if you want to learn about Chinese business culture and any industry specific terms, that can be arranged. Alternatively, our partner school in Shanghai specialises in business tuition and offers one-to-one tuition for business learners – it’s in a cool part of town too.
“I was born to surf… but live in the mountains. Where can I learn English and catch some waves?”
Duuuude, check this out.
“I want to learn English in immersion but my budget is really tight”
You can often find the best value away from the largest cities. For example, a stay in Brisbane is cheaper than Sydney, Boston is cheaper than New York. You could also consider getting a paid job while you are away, particularly during a longer trip. We can advise you on which schools offer the lowest prices and where you can save, for example we regularly offer free flights for longer courses.
Also, consider a destination like New Delhi, where the cost of living is significantly lower. See our budget tips page for more info.
“Sport is my life; how can I improve my English without disrupting my training schedule?”
How about an English plus Sport programme? We have designed a range of courses that combine language tuition with additional activities, such as specific sports, cuisine, music, dance, skiing, surfing, etc.
“Help! I have fallen in love with an Italian and am terrified of meeting the parents!”
Two options are open to you: smile politely and let your partner do the talking/translating, or take a short Italian course in Italy and really make an impression! You can gain bonus points for showing your familiarity with Italian food. We offer courses all over Italy.
ESL has something for every language learner. All of our language courses have certain things in common: the quality of tuition, accommodation and activities ensure our students make rapid language progress, while enjoying the best of local life. Beyond these key factors, the range of options is huge. Depending on where and how you choose to study, your experience of learning a language in immersion can vary hugely, which is why our team are here to help you find the perfect destination and course for your individual needs. Let’s make your project a success!
Sources:
Kwortnik, R. J., and W. T. Ross (2007). “The Role of Positive Emotions in Experiential Decisions.” International Journal of Research in Marketing, 24: 324-35.
Myriam, Met. (1993, November). Foreign language immersion programs. ERIC Digest. Washington, DC: ERIC Clearinghouse on Language and Linguistics, The Educational Resources Information Center.
David H. DeJong (1998), Is Immersion The Key To Language Renewal?, Journal of American Indian Education, Volume 37 Number 3, Spring 1998
What do you think?