METHOD
My method is best described as a multi-method approach. I find it important to be able to adjust my methods to the learner and not the other way around, force a method upon the learner. The most accurate description is probably project-based learning. Therefore, it is utterly important to find out what exactly you are learning a language for, what is your individual project? That you want to be able to skillfully communicate in the new language goes without saying.
Even though the motives might be similar, each project is unique. In an intake session we‘ll talk about your personal goals, wishes, and experiences in order to design your individual project.
LEARNING SPIRAL
The possibilities are manifold, and in my experience the learning effect is the biggest when you are exposed to a variety of approaches.
You learn best while listening?
We‘ll primarily learn with audio files.
You learn best with visuals?
We‘ll primarily learn with pictures and videos.
You learn best by doing?
We‘ll primarily learn by speaking and solving tasks.
You learn best with exercises?
We‘ll primarily work with assignments.
You learn best while reading?
We‘ll primarily learn with texts.
You learn best while writing?
We‘ll primarily communicate in writing.
​
Like this, a learning spiral develops. On the vertical plane, you learn to communicate each time more effectively by increasing your language awareness. On the horizontal plane, you learn how to skillfully master a wide variety of situations by expanding your vocabulary.
​
As Galileo said, You cannot teach anybody anything, you can only help them find it within themselves. I will do my best in supporting you in your learning process.
Prior to the class, I send you 4 topics to choose from (2 topics from your areas of interest, and 2 topics about language structures you need to successfully complete your project). Naturally, you always have the possibility to suggest your own topic!
Starting from this information and in alignment with your preferred way of learning, I‘ll prepare the upcoming class.
1. Orientation phase:
​
At the beginning of each class the first thing we do is greet each other, and small talk. This helps us to get situated in the corresponding language. If you have prepared something for the class, have read, heard, watched, experienced something you would like to share – this is the moment.
​
2. Topic of the day:
​
Let‘s suppose you learn best with visuals. In that case we might watch a short video about the topic you chose. Subsequently, we‘ll talk about it. While talking I usually take notes (because this is how I learn best) on certain language structures that we can explore together. It‘s up to you to create your own dictionary by taking note of words and expressions that you needed to express something in class, but didn‘t know / remember at that moment.
​
3. Reflection:
​
Depending on how the class develops, I‘ll make a suggestion on how you can reflect on the topic of the day on your own. This gives you the chance to check, if there are open questions.
​
4. Outlook:
​
We agree upon possible topics, and arrange a day and time for the next class.
