5 tips for a successful online language class
The school year 2019-2020 is over and has been one of the most challenging for students in the past decades. Besides the health concerns, many parents worry about how to keep their children up to date in their academic progress as well as their overall development. As schools and educators made extraordinary efforts to shift their methods to an online format where pupils learn from home, parents juggled with their work and their new role as teachers.
Children learning French or Spanish language or those who are in French immersion program often face an additional challenge; language learning is based on self-expression and practice. The most important factor for learning a language is being able to practice with another person. Magic-Languages’ program and methodology is based on learning a language in a natural way, thus the efficiency of the program rests on the above-mentioned factors. Transitioning from a successful in-program to an online program meant a significant effort to make sure that students were stimulated by the classes and interacting.
We had many parents asking how they can help to make sure their children learn well and feel supported. Here are our top 5 tips that will help your child be comfortable learning a language online.
- Environment: Make sure your child is in a quiet and distraction free part of your house. Children are used to have screens as an entertainment platform and using it for learning can become boresome for many. Having an adequate environment will help them focus on the task.
- Equipment: A lagging internet connection will make the class tiring and distracting. A small screen will make it dull and can be tiring for the eye. A highspeed internet connection along with a 13-inch laptop will keep your little ones focused.
- Participate: Encourage your child to actively participate in the class. Interaction is a key component to learning a language. Without speech, we cannot build the basics of pronunciation and conversations. As a parent, you do not need to be with your child during the class (except for toddlers). Having the sense of independence will boost your child’s confidence and will encourage them to participate more. On the other hand, sensing that they are always being watched over their shoulders will make most children less confident in their expression.
- Practice and get familiar: During days when there are no classes, continue encouraging your child to practice the new language, it can be through listening/singing songs, watching movies, reading, listening to podcasts or anything that can put the child in contact with the language.
- Feedback: Do let your teacher know how your child is doing and their motivation level. This will help the teacher adjust the class to your child’s needs. New students often go through an assessment process where the teacher will get to know them and their level.
So, to sum it up, children needs to feel that they are in a positive working environment with adequate tools and support from their teacher and their parents. As with any skills, mastery comes with practice, so encourage them to use their new knowledge as often as possible.
I hope you have found these tips helpful. If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to write me at beatriz@magic-languages.com.
Beatriz
