Spanish Online Study and Conversation (Online)

Spanish Online Study and Conversation is an advanced online programme designed for students who have already achieved a B1 level of proficiency in Spanish and wish to further enhance their language skills. This open-ended programme combines elements of the A Level Spanish curriculum with the CEFR B2 Spanish specification. The course places a strong emphasis on independent research, content creation for presentations and debates, and the exploration of Spanish and Latin American literature and current and historical affairs.

By participating in this course, you will deepen your language skills while contributing to the development of stronger communities. The advanced communication abilities fostered through this programme will enable you to engage meaningfully within Spanish-speaking communities, participate actively in community discussions, and gain a deeper appreciation of the cultural and historical contexts of the Spanish-speaking world. This aligns with the "Developing Stronger Communities" strand of the Adult Skills Fund, which underscores the importance of community cohesion and cultural exchange.

The course is structured to provide a balanced mix of guided online study sessions and interactive conversation practice, ensuring that you have ample opportunities to practice and apply your advanced language skills in real-world contexts.

Topics covered on this programme include:

• Advanced Grammar and Syntax
• Research and Presentation Skills in Spanish
• Debate and Discussion Techniques
• Reading and Analysing Spanish Literature
• Exploring Current Affairs, as well as Cultural and Social Issues in Spanish-Speaking Communities
• Historical Events and Their Impact on the Spanish-Speaking World
• Advanced Vocabulary Development
• Writing Essays and Reports in Spanish
• Critical Thinking, Argumentation, Public Speaking and Persuasive Techniques
• Exploring Spanish Art and Music
• Understanding Regional Dialects and Variations
• Intercultural Communication and Competence
• Advanced Listening Comprehension
• Role-Playing Complex Scenarios
• Networking and Building Professional Relationships
• Understanding Economic and Political Systems
• Immigration and Social Integration Issues
• Environmental Issues and Sustainability
• Exploring Regional Cuisines and Culinary Traditions

You should have a minimum of B1 Spanish to participate in this course, which equates to around 500 hours of formal tuition. Students are welcome to join at any time given their advanced level and ability to catch up independently.

This is an online course. You must have access to a suitable computer with a webcam and microphone (or headset), connected to the internet. You should be comfortable with using a computer in order to access the lessons, learning resources and homework tasks. This course uses Microsoft Teams and the Microsoft 365 platform. You will be provided with login details and basic training in order to access these services.

This is a non-accredited programme, part-funded by the Adult Skills Fund. This course is designed to develop stronger communities by enabling participants to communicate effectively in another European language, promoting cultural understanding, and enhancing social cohesion.

This is a continuous programme of study, comprised of 3 terms each year. You will need to enrol and pay for each term separately. Your tutor will help you to re-enrol at the end of each term. Students may wish to continue participating in an ongoing study and conversation group or consider seeking formal qualifications with another provider after successfully completing this course.

Progress in this course will be evaluated through a combination of instructor observation, student presentations, debates, written assignments, and interactive activities, as well as feedback and discussion with both the instructor and peers.

Homework is a crucial component of this course and will include various assignments, presentations, and activities designed to reinforce classroom learning. Additionally, you are encouraged to dedicate time each week to independent study and research to further enhance your understanding and proficiency in Spanish.

Work placement is not part of this programme.

The tuition fee for this course is for 1 year and can be spread across 3 easy payments of £ 150 each term. The tutor may recommend books or subscription services to support your learning which are optional and are not included in the course fee.