If you are interested in learning a foreign language, you may be tempted to try to learn the language using a computer course strictly online. While you can certainly increase your foreign vocabulary this way, it is most definitely not the best way to learn a foreign language. If you want to become fluent in a foreign language, it is best to study at an official language school.
While the idea of language school, especially language school abroad, may sound daunting, it is, by far, the best way to master a new language. For example, students who study English in Washington DC have an opportunity to learn English in a setting that will make learning the language necessary and relevant, as well as providing them with first-hand experiences that make language learning meaningful.
Here are ten reasons to help you see why you need to look into language schools in Washington DC to learn English:
1. In Person is Always Better
Yes, technology has made life easier. But, when it comes to becoming fluent in a foreign language, nothing can replace learning to communicate in person. Memorizing vocabulary words and grammar rules does not mean you know how to speak in conversation with a native speaker. Instead, language schools give students opportunities to speak in the language regularly. For example, inlingua, a premier Washington language school, has students “learn by speaking.”
2. A Truly Immersive Experience
Learning through a computer or a textbook is helpful, but it does not immerse you in the culture the same way that attending a language school abroad will. Students who take English courses in Washington DC, for example, will be surrounded by others speaking English. Everything from the restaurants they visit to the television shows they watch will require using English.
3. Understand the Culture
Language schools in DC also help language learners appreciate the culture. Instead of simply seeing the words on a page, students will see the difference between conversational English and business English. They will learn cultural sayings, as well as pick up slang. Plus, living in an English-speaking country will introduce students to their customs, traditions, and holidays.
4. An Investment for Your Future
Learning a language is always an investment in your future. It will improve your resume and make you more desirable as a professional. Additionally, those who have spent time abroad have developed international relationships and gained a global perspective making them stand out even more.
5. Meet New People
Language schools are also great places to meet new people. For instance, students who attend language schools in DC will not only be surrounded by their fellow students, they will also meet people around DC. DC is a metropolitan city and a cultural melting pot, so these students will meet people from various walks of life. After attending language school abroad, you will have developed friendships with people from around the world.
6. Real Life Requires Real Conversations
A major benefit of language schools abroad is that they force students to learn the language and to learn it quickly. Why? Well, because real life requires real conversations. When traveling abroad, you will need to speak the language in order to get what you need. This is different from learning a language from a book or a computer where you can check in and out as you please.
When you are living in an English-speaking country, for example, you will need to learn to speak key English phrases quickly to survive. Plus, this sudden forced use of the language will help you develop the confidence you need for success.
7. Hear the Language Spoken Properly
Anyone who has studied a foreign language knows that the way words are said does not always match the textbook. As you travel abroad, you will have the opportunity to hear native speakers pronounce words. You will also develop an understanding of inflections and body language. When it comes to speaking a foreign language, you must hear it spoken. Why not travel to a country where the language is widely spoken to hear it?
8. Qualified Teachers
In contrast to using apps with language partners to learn a foreign language, language schools, like inlingua, hire qualified teachers. For instance, inlingua’s teachers have at least a bachelor’s degree in TESOL, Linguistics, English, or related fields, and teaching experience. These teachers are native speakers who understand how to teach foreign languages, as well as prepare students for language exams. Additionally, inlingua has small classes, so their language trainers can spend time helping students individually.
9. Prepare for Tests
Language schools are also the best means for preparing for foreign language exams. This is because language schools tend to have test preparation courses, as well as test preparation materials. Language schools give students the opportunity to develop the skills they will need to pass these tests, such as listening, reading, writing, and speaking. Also, inlingua is home to an English test center, so students not only have access to test preparation and qualified teachers, but they will already be familiar with the testing location.
10. Fun and Worthwhile
Last but not least, studying at a language school is fun! It will be a worthwhile experience. In addition to becoming fluent in a foreign language, you will have fun exploring your new surroundings, spending time with new people, and experiencing new customs.
Students who travel to Washington DC to study English will have a front row seat to American politics, as well as unlimited opportunities to celebrate America’s cultural heritage. DC is the capital, and as such, it is filled with museums and events that represent the best of the country. Best of all, most of the museums in DC are free! Imagine learning to speak English by visiting historic landmarks with your new friends. Sounds fun, right?
