Is the program any fun or is it just work, work, work?

Believe it or not it is fun most of the time, even when you are in class. Our programs are geared to provide complete immersion, which means learning, by experience. Class material is presented in an interactive manner, not a boring lecture format.

We believe that teaching a language cannot be successful solely by routine and repetition but should be creative and communicative. We focus on learning to speak the language by instilling the most effective ways to master correct pronunciation and intonation.

School Methodology
Generally speaking, grammar provides a language's framework, while vocabulary gives you the tools to "dress it up" and communicate. In the past, maybe in the days when you went to school, language courses emphasized analyzing grammar (sentence structure, syntax) and understanding text. As you may have discovered, just analyzing and learning grammar will not enable you to communicate. In fact, you could spend years studying without ever having a real conversation. And, if this is your language background, your first attempt to try to speak with a native speaker was probably extremely frustrating.

The communicative approach pays attention to the functional as well as structural aspects of the language. We have developed techniques and practices to teach all four language skills (speaking, listening, reading, and writing) and which acknowledge the mutual interdependence of language and communication. Our approach allows us to borrow elements from other teaching methods (such as role-playing, question and answer, visual aids and drills) to adapt to your learning patterns and to develop the skills you need.

Although the communicative approach is a big step ahead in comparison to the grammar-translation method, it's not the only element necessary for success. As you are probably aware, the success of any method or approach greatly depends on the teacher implementing it. A good teacher knows how to motivate you, is attentive to your needs, explains seemingly difficult things clearly, challenges you when needed, and has patience when it's not your day. In short, a good teacher is someone who has excellent professional and people skills.

The learning environment also affects the learning process. We have comfortable, airy classrooms suitable for our classes of a maximum of four students. Small classes will allow you to constantly interact with your teacher. As a result, you will enjoy and learn more in our small classes than you could in the larger classes you will find at most other language schools. We also offer private lessons for students who need an even more intensive learning experience.

The school facilities feature a computer lab which contains 10 computers that are available to students during office hours (7:30AM-4:30PM).These computers offer internet access, private e-mail accounts, Microsoft Works for word processing and spreadsheet creation for students who need to work while away from home. Computer use and internet/e-mail access are available free of charge to all students.

Class schedule
Lessons normally start at 8:00 and you will be asked to take a test on your first Monday morning (unless you're a beginner), to establish your standard so that we can place you in the right class and level.

On the first day of class, we offer a student orientation designed to ease your transition into Costa Rican culture. During the orientation, we discuss many important subjects, such as what you can expect in your home stay, safety precautions, and how to use local transportation. We also discuss topics related to the school, including the services provided by the school and your daily schedule. The orientation supplements the orientation packet you will receive when you arrive.

Classes normally are from 8am. - 12pm. with a coffee break between 10am - 10:20am. For those of you who take the 6 hours/day program, classes continue from 1:15pm - 3:15pm., with a break between 2:10pm - 2:20pm. This schedule allows you sufficient time for lunch.

During the busy months (June, July and August) your group may have to be assigned afternoon classes from 1pm to 5pm. (note: this type of scheduling is rare, so you can plan on taking classes in the morning). During the same months we occasionally schedule afternoon tutoring sessions from 3:30pm to 5:30pm.