Speech practice in the country of the target language is the most effective and reliable way to master a foreign speech in a relatively short time. Being among native speakers, solving various communication problems every minute, each student is faced with a high motivation to master the language.
During a lesson at home, you can always count on the translation of phrases and a hint from the teacher or other students. On the one hand, this facilitates the learning process, but on the other hand, it prevents the formation and consolidation of foreign language skills and abilities. Being in the country of the target language deprives such an opportunity, but the process of understanding speech by ear and the ability to express one’s own thoughts will go many times faster and more efficiently.
This way of learning a language is not only suitable for students and children. Adults can also use it successfully. Also, on such a trip, in addition to learning the language, you can look for an opportunity to earn extra money during the period of study or future business partners. Therefore, before traveling, be sure to download resume from LinkedIn and take the rest of your education documents, in case you meet the right person.
Advantages of speech practice in the country of the target language
Stay in a language environment. There is no need to study grammar rules and speech cliches from the textbook. When a student is in a speech environment, it is much easier for him to overcome the language barrier and the fear of making a mistake or being misunderstood. Conversation with native speakers contributes to the constant expansion of vocabulary, makes it possible to feel and hear live, authentic speech with all its inherent flavor.
Foreign teaching methods. The teaching method is very important for the successful mastering of a foreign language. Learning with the help of new methods, non-standard forms of work contributes to the formation of an increased interest in the language being studied, the desire to improve it.
Communication with native speakers. Courses abroad provide ample opportunities for additional practice. You can communicate not only with the teacher, but also with classmates or new friends. Communication in a natural environment on topics of interest to the interlocutors will help you deal with complex grammatical structures much faster and master the skills of speaking.
New contacts. This follows from the previous point. The student will have memories and possibly good friends for life. As previously noted, this is a good opportunity to establish business contacts. So before you travel, you need to get a LinkedIn makeover, certifications, and a business plan to consider, which you will want to discuss with a possible future business partner. It’s better to prepare in advance, because no one knows when you will encounter the right contact.
Combining activities with rest and entertainment. While studying abroad, students stop perceiving a foreign language as homework. Visiting various interesting places, historical and cultural sights, cafes or clubs will contribute to the perception of foreign speech as a means of communication with other people.
Introduction to culture and traditions. It is impossible to study a language in isolation from the culture, history, and folk traditions of his country. Understanding the lifestyle and mentality of the inhabitants of the country always helps to learn complex words and expressions, to understand the peculiarities of the structure of the language, to get acquainted with various national realities. Staying in the country itself will help to learn information about it not with the help of a textbook, but firsthand.
Broad outlook. Having visited another country, the student learns a lot about its culture, inhabitants and their traditions. In addition, such educational institutions are usually full of students from various countries, so that the matter is not limited to one culture. Diversity is the foundation of critical thinking and needs to be developed from an early age.
Minuses of learning a language abroad
Cost. Despite the fact that this type of training is now very common, the prices for it are still high. Most often, the paid package includes: flight, accommodation, meals, medical insurance and the training itself. But you also need money for unforeseen expenses and all kinds of entertainment that the student will definitely want.
Homesickness. The student may miss home, parents, and friends very much. For this there is a very capacious English word homesickness. Therefore, it is necessary to clearly explain before the trip how long it will take so that the student understands that this is not forever and it is better to enjoy this time. Usually homesickness passes after a couple of weeks after the student gets used to the camp routine, gets to know all the teachers and makes acquaintances.
At the first stages of study abroad, each student, even with a good level of knowledge, will certainly have certain difficulties. But constant work and daily hours of communication with other people will help to overcome the obstacles that have arisen and bring your knowledge and skills to perfection.