FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

We use the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR), which is the most widely recognised guide to describe the achievements of language learners in Europe. The framework is used for all languages. In fact, since it was published in 2001, the CEFR has been translated into 37 languages and is now increasingly recognized outside of Europe. If a learner is taking a B1 class, his or her goal is to achieve mastery of the skills described for that level.
The CEFR describes six levels of achievement, from absolute beginner (A1) to the highest level of fluency (C2). Students at the A1 and A2 levels are Basic Users of the language and work toward learning basic grammar and vocabulary. At the B1 and B2 levels, learners are Independent Users of the language and work toward navigating a number of linguistic situations (like making polite requests or conducting basic negotiations). Students at the C1 or C2 level, or Independent Users of the language, have achieved a high level of competence in their target language and continue developing fluency, ability to communicate appropriately in a number of increasingly complex situations with special attention to context and tone.

One of our qualified trainers will conduct a placement test for the language you would like to learn. The test is comprised of short written gap-fill exercise and a one-to-one interview.

It is our goal to create a truly tailored experience, which starts with building a working partnership with employee course managers. We come to your company and test each employee individually with a written placement test and one-to-one interview. Then, we coordinate with you to place students in appropriate classes.

This depends on a number of factors, one of which is your linguistic background and your target language. A native German speaker will generally have an easier time learning English or Dutch than Arabic or Mandarin. Somebody who learned Spanish in school will likely pick up French with less effort than somebody who hasn’t ever studied any Romance languages.

Your existing language level also plays a role. Beginner students (A1/A2 level) generally see consistent improvement while they are learning the mechanics of their target language. After students achieve basic proficiency (in the B1 level), their advancement through the levels B2 and above will often slow, but for good reason! Starting at the B1 level, students are exposed to nuances and complexities of the language which take more time to master. They are also working to achieve a level of fluency that was not possible before.

As always, it’s a good idea to get as much exposure to your target language and culture as possible. An easy way to do this is watching television shows and films (in the original language) or attending cultural events in your city.

Alongside the four skills which underpin the learning strategy for any language (reading, writing, listening and speaking), we follow four core principles that inform our training concept:

• a comprehensive needs analysis comprising both a written test and one to one interview, to gain a snapshot of each individuals’ linguistic ability and ascertain their exact needs.
• regular feedback and fine-tuning of learning aims to ensure constant progress and absolute transparency.
• a broad spectrum of certified language trainers and translators, whose cutting-edge know-how is ensured by regular attendance of in-house seminars and workshops.
• a blend of up to date and relevant material tailored to individual needs, delivered in a fun and easily-digestible way to maximise learning potential.

All materials are based upon the Institute4Languages key concept of target-oriented tailor-made learning, which means there is no coursebook for any given course.
Should your main focus be on written correspondence with clients, we will create tailor-made materials for you based upon your very own documents, fleshing out the most important components and ensuring that your personal learning aims are fully met.

Our qualified trainers are committed to individualising courses based on the needs of the participants. Each course begins with a needs analysis where students will define their learning goals with the guidance of the trainer. The trainer then writes a learning plan that the course will follow over the following 2-3 months. When the learning plan has been completed, students are invited to review their progress and define new learning goals.

All of our trainers possess an official qualification in language teaching and are native speakers or have achieved the highest proficiency in that language. We pride ourselves on the diversity of our training team. Each trainer brings a wealth of teaching and other professional experience to their work, as well as a genuine passion for the language learning process. Indeed, our non-native-speaking teachers bring to the classroom their own insights of having learned the target language, which certainly enriches their students’ learning experience.

Our Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) section didn’t answer your question?

Feel free to send us a message or give us a call. We would be happy to answer your questions (in English or German)!