In a world full of apps, online programs and instructional videos, it’s easy to assume that you can master a language on your own.
While digital tools can support your learning, an in-classroom experience can take your learning further.
We spoke to Luis, our CAE Program Manager for Languages, about the benefits of classroom-based learning, where you’re surrounded by real people, real voices and real conversations.
Practice makes perfect – when you practise with real people
You can memorise vocabulary all day long, but nothing builds your confidence like testing your knowledge in a conversation with another human being. In a classroom, you’re surrounded by peers who are learning alongside you.
According to Luis, relying solely on online programs or apps can’t replicate the deeper language learning that comes from spontaneous conversations.
“Face-to-face interactions allow dedicated adult learners to maintain their motivation and develop mental resilience.”
Spontaneity and improvisation – like role-playing travel scenarios or using the language to chat about everyday things – are where your skills start to feel natural, instead of rehearsed.
A weekly routine that moves you forward
Let’s be honest: teaching yourself a language sounds great in theory… until life gets busy. A weekly class gives you structure, accountability and a rhythm to help you retain what you learn.
“Consistent in-person schedules strengthen relationships over time, and gradually build confidence,” Luis says.
“Feedback [from CAE students] confirms that it reduces intimidation even for experienced students. They also develop a healthy habit reinforced by positive peer influence.”
Language learning relies on consistent practice and effort and having peers is a good way to remain accountable, measure your progress and be present in your learning. Because when your classmates are showing up, you’ll want to show up too.
Instant, personalised teacher support
One of the greatest advantages of face-to-face language classes is having a teacher who can see and hear you in real time. They notice the small things – a hesitation before pronouncing a tricky word, a confused expression when you’re trying to learn a new verb structure, and the lightbulb moment when something clicks and you ‘get it’.
“[Our teachers are] often native speakers of the language they teach, [and] have navigated similar language learning journeys, including learning English or a second language,” Luis says.
“They slow down and provide common, useful anecdotes to help students remember challenging words or pronunciation, and clarification as needed to cover gaps.”
A social environment that makes learning easier (and more fun!)
Learning a new language can feel intimidating – especially when you’re practising alone. The group dynamic and shared experience of learning in a classroom can help reduce your anxiety.
“The group dynamic – with natural conversations and new friendships – helps ease speaking anxiety, improves fluency and promotes cognitive resilience in a supportive setting,” Luis says.
It’s reassuring to hear when someone else shares a frustration with tricky pronunciation, grammar patterns and more. The sense of camaraderie will help you take risks, try out new phrases and overcome frustrations without fear of failure.
Hear natural speech the way it’s meant to be
Research shows that 93% of communication is non-verbal – tone, rhythm and body language are all integral to how we communicate with others. These are essential parts of a language that are often lost in self-guided learning. In a classroom, you hear the nuances of the verbal and non-verbal language as they’re naturally spoken.
“Experiencing authentic tone, rhythm and body language in real time helps students understand contexts in ways that are hard to replicate online or through an app,” Luis says.
This exposure is integral for mastering not just the words, but the expression and emotion of a language.
If you’re ready to learn a language, our CAE courses are the perfect place to start. Our in-person language classes, held in the Melbourne CBD, offer a deeper learning experience: connection, confidence, community and real-world practice that turns theory into fluency.