Our language instruction is imparted either online, offline or in a blended mode. In all cases, our proposed mode of learning include teachers. The latter structure the individual learning process, they impart at least part of the teaching and they eventually evaluate the progress of our students and adjust the learning process accordingly.
All our language teachers have undertaken tertiary studies in their respective language and literature and have many years of experience in teaching second languages. The method used in all cases is based on the communicative approach. Students learn to apply formal knowledge of the language and negotiate meaning by participating in real communicative situations in which language becomes a means to an end and not just an end in itself.
The IEA curriculum for all delivery modes is based on the European Reference Framework for learning languages, with strict equivalencies to the ACTFL framework. The study material used by more than 10’000 students and perfected over the past 15 years has been designed for intensive learning in the cultural context of each language, so for example in the context of Argentina and Uruguay for Spanish courses.
- Online courses at IEA combine synchronous learning through classes with our teachers via Zoom, Skype, Hangout or whatever technology your organization prefers and no matter what time zone you are in. These classes are usually complemented by asynchronous elements from our online learning platform Mi Español.
- Offline courses at IEA can be taught on our premises or at your organization (also referred to as “in-company” classes even though they are not limited to private enterprises), using an extensive or intensive format (15+ hours per week), in groups or as one-on-one classes.
Many students at Academia Buenos Aires and Academia Uruguay come to the respective cities to study a maximum of content in a minimum time. IEA then uses a full-immersion, integrated learning method, whereby students learn Spanish 24 hours a day, in professionally conducted classes including information on local culture and history, informally at home with their host families and during extra-curricular activities. This approach is based on the idea that participating in a mix of different language situations is one of the most efficient way to learn a foreign language.
Group classes at IEA have a maximum of 7 students and – when taught on our premises – start every Monday year-round, on all levels. Prior to arrival, students fill in an online test, followed by an oral test on day 1 of classes, to assign group levels.
