Are you thinking about attending an English language school? This is a great option for those individuals desiring a full English learning experience. If you choose carefully, you can find a school that teaches you more than the basic grammar and vocabulary. You can find programs that teach you to communicate effectively and with ease.
Choosing the right English language school is an important decision. You must look at all your options and determine which school is the best fit for your needs. With many English Language Schools to research, you may be feeling overwhelmed. No need to worry – we are here to help.
Before you begin your research, you should identify what traits are the most important when choosing a language school. Here are 8 tips to help you pick an English Language School:
1. Choose a Global Destination
English language schools are excellent destinations to learn more than how to speak another language. The best English language schools are in a setting that is a global destination. Global destinations are places that provide a plethora of opportunities to learn about various cultures, lifestyles, business, art, and more.
If you choose a school located in a tourist destination, you will have chances to visit places you have dreamed about with peers that are also learning alongside you. Language schools in DC provide students with the opportunities to visit the capital of the United States, multiple government institutions, and museums that foster an appreciation for culture and art.
In big cities, you will also be surrounded by people from all over the world. Thus, you will be learning more than a language by learning to communicate with people from other countries.
2. Review Its Accreditations
You can avoid poor quality schools by reviewing the school’s accreditation. True English language schools should be accredited by a reputable organization. Accreditation organizations recognize a school’s ability to teach, test, and accommodate students.
One organization is the Commission of English Language Program Accreditation (CEA). This national accrediting organization for English language programs is recognized by the US Secretary of Education. If a language school has earned CEA accreditation, it means it has been recognized as an effective teaching institution for language learners.
Additionally, review its testing services. Accredited language schools should offer students TOEFL testing and IELTS testing. Their programs should be designed to help students pass these tests with ease. Often, an accredited school is an English test center as well.
3. Consider the Methodology
Different schools practice different learning methodologies. Some schools focus heavily on grammar-translation methodology, while others are more focused on audio-lingual learning. In these methodologies, students work on memorization and drill work.
Other language schools are more focused on having the students learn language through open communication. Some theories include community language learning and communicative language teaching (CLT).
One of the premier language schools in Washington DC, inlingua, uses the communicative method where students are constantly practicing with teachers – actually “Trainers” – serving as language guides. This method focuses on helping students learn how to communicate in situations they may find themselves in.
4. Check for Certified Teachers
When reviewing potential schools, look at the teaching requirements. What qualifications do teachers need to work at the school? Strong language schools hire qualified, exceptional teachers with plenty of experience teaching ESL students. Most schools request that teachers have earned additional certifications that show they are capable of teaching languages effectively.
5. Find a School that Encourages Cultural Diversity
When looking at language schools, you should look for a school that encourages cultural diversity. As we discussed earlier, you are not simply learning a language – you are also learning about a culture. You need to feel like the school where you choose to study embraces other cultures. A diverse group of students means you will have more opportunities for personal growth and cultural awareness.
For example, students who attend language schools in Washington, DC will be surrounded by a wide variety of cultures, with embassies, universities, and international organizations drawing people from every nation in the world. The school you choose should reflect the broad, international diversity of Washington, DC. If everyone is from the same cultural background, it will hinder your learning experience.
6. Select a School that Celebrates Cultural Experiences
Many language schools provide students chances to celebrate cultural experiences in relation to language learning; but, it is even better if you find a school that includes a full social activities calendar. Language learning schools should include elements that are prevalent in the culture. Cultural events, social excursions, and social programs are a critical part of language acquisition, and they are fun! Choose a school that provides several opportunities to learn about the country and experience the culture.
7. Opt for a School that Offers a Variety of Services and Options
Language schools have evolved and now offer students many options. In addition to the wide range of methodologies, language schools provide a variety of options regarding duration and type. For instance, some students choose to take nightly classes while living at home while others travel abroad and stay in residential dorms.
For those wishing to study English in Washington, DC, inlingua students may choose to stay in the residential apartments or in a homestay with a family who lives in the greater Washington, DC area.
In addition to duration and accommodation, you should also look the types of programs that are offered. For instance, language schools may offer pre-college programs, test preparation programs, private tutoring programs, and even partnerships with colleges and universities that will enable successful ESL students to enroll in leading universities without taking English proficiency exams. Choose a school that has a program that meets your needs.
8. Consider the Cost and Overall Value
Finally, consider the overall cost of the language school. Compare the costs of different schools in relation to what you will receive. The cost of courses will vary depending on the school, as well as the number of weeks you will take the course. Additionally, there are costs associated with student fees, excursions, and accommodations. However, be careful of schools that offer the lowest prices, as this may indicate larger class sizes and less-qualified teachers. After all, at the end of your program of study, the quality of your English training has a great impact on your success in your academic and professional life. Focus on choosing the best school overall for the best price.
We hope these tips will help you on your quest to find an English language school.
After reading this list, are you curious about inlingua Washington, DC?
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