With the global pandemic English language learning has moved online, but how do you determine which program will give you a useful, high-quality education? Many students try to learn English online, but often fail because they cannot practice their speaking, or receive regular feedback from their teachers. Here are 5 things to look for when choosing an online English language program:
1. Online teaching experience
Many English schools have little experience in online teaching, and have faced many challenges. Some schools have even closed their doors, creating an opportunity to learn English at home. Make sure to look for programs that aren’t just reacting to the new landscape of the world. It is important to look for online immersion programs and self-paced online courses created by universities or institutions that have experience in online learning. You should look for courses that have many reviews from their learners, and who have even won awards for their online teaching.
2. Real-time listening and speaking feedback
Watching a previously-recorded video or lecture on a streaming service or mobile device won’t give you the opportunity to speak back-and-forth with your teacher to ask questions in the moment. Without a live teaching experience, you won’t be able to practice your speaking skills in a conversational setting. Make sure the online program you choose gives you one-on-one instruction with a real teacher and real classmates for maximum language learning.
3. Teaching expertise
Many online learning apps use artificial intelligence to grade your work. Sometimes, this means that your assignments and language skills won’t be graded by a real teacher. In most courses, this means that the program may not have the experience to teach English at an advanced level. When you look for online courses, it is important to search for programs with qualified teachers who are experts in teaching English as a second language.
4. Full immersion
Learning English online doesn’t mean you can’t surround yourself with the English language. When you are searching for online English programs, make sure that you choose a program with activities, conversation clubs, events and more. These additional activities outside of the classroom will help you practice your English and learn faster.
5. Student support services
With many video streaming programs and mobile learning applications, students don’t have a support system of academic advisors, tutors, teachers and language specialists to help answer questions or guide you along during your studies. When you choose a language program, it’s important that you receive amenities such as student support services that will help you succeed along the way.
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Looking for an online English language program? Check out ASU Global Launch!
The Global Launch: Online Immersion English language program is not the same as learning English on YouTube or through a mobile app. Global Launch has been teaching English online for more than 5 years and has even won awards from organizations like the U.S. Department of State and Coursera, for our excellence in online teaching. Global Launch’s Online Immersion English language program matches the rigor of our campus immersion program but allows you to study from the comfort of your home.
In addition, you will receive full student support services, live tutoring, live classes with your teachers and classmates, and access to fun and engaging live activities with other international and American ASU students.
At Global Launch, you will:
Interact with other students in fun and engaging activities and events outside of the classroom that surrounds you in the English language and American culture
Get instant feedback from your teacher on homework, tests, presentations
Improve your speaking skills with live classes with real teachers and American English speakers
Earn your TOEFL waiver for admission to Arizona State University undergraduate and graduate degree programs.
Meet Chieri, a Global Launch student from Japan who is currently enrolled in our online immersion program. Watch the video below to learn more about the online English language learning Experience at Global Launch!
EdAgree is committed to helping you find the right university. We want to help you put your best foot forward during the admissions process, support you throughout your study abroad journey, and beyond! We are proud to partner with ASU Global Launch and to be your direct connection to the admissions team!