Post written by Marc, one of our Spanish teachers
As a Spanish teacher for foreigners, I have come across a question that resonates with my students: what is the best option, group classes or individual classes? The answer is not simple, since both modalities have their advantages and disadvantages, and the choice depends largely on your needs and preferences.
Group training
Group classes offer a space where learning becomes a social experience. The interaction with other students is enriching and language becomes a real communication tool, and also between people with a language level similar to yours, in this way learning becomes a shared experience. Additionally, in a group, you have the opportunity to learn not only from the teacher, but also from the questions, concerns, and experiences of your classmates. This broadens your horizon and gives you a deeper understanding of the Spanish culture and language.
However, group classes also present challenges. The teacher’s time is divided among students, which limits individual attention, and some students may feel that their needs are not fully met. Problems also often appear with differences in level: those who have a lower level than the average of the group may feel lost at times and may have problems keeping up, and in the same way, those who have a higher level can get bored sometimes. It is a challenge for the teacher to adapt to the needs and rhythms of all students and this is not always achieved. Furthermore, almost all the students who sign up at the beginning never finish and sometimes new students sign up, which disturbs the dynamics of the course, as well as students who miss a class who feel lost when they return.
Personal Training
Alternatively, individual classes offer a personalised learning experience, which is a very important advantage. In an individual class, the focus is exclusively on the learning needs and goals of each student. The teacher can adapt the content and teaching to the level and pace of each student.
There is also more flexibility and freedom to schedule classes according to the student’s availability. This makes it easier to reconcile with other commitments and priorities. As a student, by being the centre of attention, you can address your weaknesses more effectively and advance at your own pace. This often leads to faster and more efficient learning.
But, of course, individual classes also have their disadvantages. Personalised attention has its price, and individual classes are usually more expensive. Furthermore, in this context, social dynamics are reduced, since opportunities to interact with other students disappear.
Choosing between group classes and individual classes is a personal decision that depends on your goals and preferences. Some students even choose to combine both modalities to take advantage of the best of each. From my point of view as a teacher, I think the choice comes down to your learning objectives and your preferred learning style. Whatever your choice, the most important thing is to commit to your learning process, make the most of it and enjoy it. Learning Spanish is an exciting journey, regardless of whether you do it in a group or individually with us at Glorick!