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Frequently
Asked Questions
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What is different about BridgeDenver's program? |
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At BridgeDenver,
we believe in a conversational approach to
learning a foreign language. We believe that
the more you speak the language, the faster
you’ll learn it. Our classes are designed
to encourage you to speak, rather than to
listen to your teacher lecture. Of course
grammar is essential, but we prefer to have
you practice new forms rather than having
your teacher lecture about them. BridgeDenver
instructors strive to make the classroom experience
a comfortable and enjoyable one where learning
takes place via realistic use of the new language
instead of through lecture or translation.
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How can your instructors teach me if classes are taught entirely in the new language and I don't speak a word of it? |
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Our teachers are trained in the direct method
of language training and are accustomed to
working with students who are unfamiliar with
their language. Therefore, they are experts
at demonstrating meaning in class without
having to translate. BridgeDenver lessons
are all highly illustrated with DVDs, pictures,
and classroom techniques that clearly show
the meaning of unknown words. As you progress,
you will see new words and phrases again in
a different context, reinforcing previous
lessons until using the new language becomes
a comfortable habit. Moreover, our teachers
are experienced, enthusiastic, and work hard
to make sure every student understands the
lesson and enjoys their classes.
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How do I progress in the group classes? Do I move from level to level? |
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As a student at BridgeDenver,
you will progress through your program at
your own pace. Our teachers are not required
to complete a prescribed amount of material
in an assigned time period, and classes therefore
move at the pace of the students. You will
work in your class and move through the levels
as you progress. If a group class closes because
students go on vacation or stop attending,
the remaining students will transfer to another
class at a compatible point in their studies.
We will work closely with you to help you
navigate your way through the language learning
process.
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How long will it take me to learn a new language? |
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Learning a new language takes dedication and
time. We find that most students, taking 12
hours of group class per four-week term, can
reach a conversational status (intermediate
level, around 55%) after a year to a year-and-a-half
of study. Students in private and immersion
classes tend to go faster.
In either case, learning rates for students in our classes are excellent in comparison to those who take traditional "grammar-lecture" foreign language classes for years and never learn to speak the language! True fluency takes years of study and experience in a country where the language is spoken. You can increase your rate of learning by completing all homework assignments, doing additional independent study, or even spending a few weeks studying abroad to jump-start your learning. Ask us for suggestions.
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Can I take a day off in my four-week group program? |
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If you are unable to attend a group class, there is no make-up session available. You may catch up on missed homework by meeting with the teacher after class or scheduling a private session at a discounted rate.
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Can I take a break from my classes and come back? |
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Yes, you can take a break and come back to
your group class program. The program coordinator
will work with you to see what you have learned,
determine what needs to be reviewed, and make
a recommendation for a class placement where
you can effectively resume your studies.
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Some friends and I want to set up our own class. Can we do that? |
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Yes! That’s called a closed group and
is a kind of private class. It’s an
excellent way to study a language with friends,
family members, or colleagues. You can schedule
the class at your convenience and your group
can meet either at the school or at your location.
If the teacher travels to your location, there
is an additional charge for transportation
costs.
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Can I use my own materials in class? |
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Your own study materials may be used in a
private class by speaking with the Education Director. Our instructors are
trained in the use of our established curriculum
and may need familiarization with outside
materials before conducting the class. The
student will be responsible for any additional
costs of purchasing supporting instructor
books and materials.
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Can I get college credit or continuing education units (CEUs) for classes with BridgeDenver? |
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BridgeDenver language students are often eligible to receive credit. Our parent company, Bridge-Linguatec, has been authorized by ACCET, the Accrediting Council of Continuing Education and Training, to award CEUs for our courses. College students may also be able to receive credit through their school. We are happy to provide attendance, performance, testing reports or any other documentation required. Please check with your school, company or organization for their credit requirements.
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What is your guarantee that I will like the classes? |
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We want you to be happy with your program
and we offer two ways to ensure your satisfaction.
First, you are welcome to take a free class
to see what you think of our methodology,
classes, instructors, and facilities before
making a commitment. Second, we offer a money-back
guarantee. If you are not satisfied with your
experience here, you can cancel anytime up
to halfway through your program and we will
refund the full remaining balance of your
tuition. Please see the details of our refund policy on your application.
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