Methods of remote learning have mushroomed in recent years, driven by the pandemic, new technologies, and the ever-increasing busyness of our daily lives, all of which have made online classes the most convenient way to learn new skills.
If you’re considering learning Spanish, perhaps by attending in-person lessons, taking a Zoom Spanish class, or by attending online Skype Spanish classes, then it can be difficult to decide which to opt for, and which choice is best for you.
Below we round up the pros and cons of various learning methods to help you make a decision.
How Can I Learn Spanish Online?
You have a number of different options when it comes to distance learning Spanish classes.
There are a plethora of Zoom-based virtual Spanish classes that offer the learner a range of different learning experiences - for example, you may prefer to learn in a small group, or, alternatively, prefer to have one-on-one lessons with a tutor.
You may want to consider attending one of the live Spanish learning groups online that are also widely available - these are often a fun way to enjoy a ‘real’ classroom experience, with sessions usually held regularly throughout the day for learners to attend when it’s most convenient for them.
You may prefer to learn Spanish online by watching subtitled TV shows, designed to immerse learners in ‘real world’ Spanish. In terms of how to learn a language fast, many people find this to be a great option. Or perhaps online Skype Spanish classes are more suited to you - many such courses offer a ‘virtual’ classroom setting that many learners enjoy.
Podcasts are another method to help you achieve fluency in Spanish; select from a huge range of programs to fit around your schedule, from hour-long classes to coffee break mini sessions.
What Are the Upsides of Learning Spanish on Zoom?
When considering the best way to learn a language, personal circumstances and convenience will play a key role in weighing up what choice is best for you. The advantages of a Zoom Spanish class include:
- Accessibility. Virtual Spanish classes are easy to find and participate in using this platform.
- Range of options available. From beginner to advanced, formal to informal, private sessions to group learning, the sheer volume of Zoom Spanish learning groups online means there is a class to suit every learner.
- Interactive element. When it comes to distance learning Spanish courses, the learner participation element of Zoom meets is fundamental in helping learners pick up the language effectively.
- Convenience. With classes available virtually on-demand, you are guaranteed to find a course that fits in perfectly with your lifestyle and commitments.
Can I Learn Spanish on Zoom?
A Zoom Spanish class may be a great option for you to learn the language. With courses tailored to every level and learning style, virtual Spanish classes or one-to-one sessions delivered via this platform offer an effective method to acquire, or brush up on, language skills.
In terms of language, and learning Spanish vs English, it is important to bear in mind that Spanish is a highly phonetic language: this means that the words usually correspond exactly to a set sound - which is often not the case in English.
This is vital to consider, as it underlines the importance of needing to hear the language spoken; relying on written materials is unlikely to deliver the results you want.
And...What are the Downsides?
A Zoom Spanish class may not be right for everyone. When considering the best way to learn, also think about these potential negatives:
- Personal motivation. If you’re someone who gets on best with the ‘disciplined’ approach of attending a physical class, then this is worth bearing in mind when weighing up your options.
- Lack of in-person interaction. Some learners progress best in a ‘real’ classroom setting that allows for plenty of interchange between teacher and students, and Zoom classes don’t always allow for this.
- Technical difficulties. We’ve all experienced this: sudden loss of connection or problems with sound quality can mar the learning experience and cause frustration.
- Security issues. Some learners are anxious about security and privacy concerning their Zoom lessons, especially if teachers do not password protect lessons.
So: Which is Better? In-Person or Online Spanish Courses?
There are many things to consider when it comes to deciding whether to take an in-person class or participate in one of the many distance learning Spanish classes available online.
Taking into account your personal learning style and preference is vital, as well as the choice that fits best into your lifestyle and other commitments.
In-person courses offer the advantage of one-to-one interaction with a tutor and fellow students, which many learners find important. There is no risk of these sessions being beset by technical difficulties that could undermine the learning experience, and some people find, in terms of staying motivated and on-track, face-to-face sessions are preferable.
A significant number of learners, too, find that staying focused during an online course can be difficult - there are too many distractions: a work email pings in, or the kids start being noisy in the next room.
In a classroom setting, concentration can be easier to maintain for the duration of the lesson.
Online courses, on the other hand, offer total convenience to the learner. An option can be chosen to fit in perfectly with the learner’s life, meaning that they are more likely to not miss a lesson. The sheer range of options available also means that there is something online to suit every learning style - you can choose to attend a group or book private sessions.
Technology now allows for online lessons to be immersive and interactive: fellow students may not be physically sat next to you, but the virtual setting allows for group and breakout discussions to help cement what has been learned in the session.
Lastly, online courses tend to be a more affordable option, giving more learners access to acquiring language skills than ever before.
