There is a main differentiation that we make when it comes to learning language: immersion and instruction. 

 

The goal of language immersion is to reproduce the learning environment that an infant is born into when acquiring their native language.  In this environment, associations are naturally created between visual inputs and verbal cues. Our immersion preschool program is designed to facilitate this environment for young children. 

 

Immersion for older children and adults can also be effective, but can be logistically challenging to achieve.  One of the few ways to have a true immersion experience is to travel to a foreign language speaking country (we currently offer immersion travel programs that are tailored to your individual goals in both Spain and Colombia). 

 

That being said, immersion in a foreign language as an older child or an adult can be stressful and uncomfortable. Although we eventually achieve a working knowledge of the language, the process to get there is not always easy. With this in mind, we have created an instructional methodology based on the following: 

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• Active learning principles

At UVSí, we use the controlled learning environment described above as an opportunity to achieve the active learning approach. In our dynamic class sessions, students are practicing the Four Skills of Language in an evenly distributed manner while never being asked to produce any language that they have not already been introduced to. 

 

• Flow research

In our approach to learning in general, we believe that knowledge can be acquired in a gradual manner where an individual is always within their “comfort zone”. This approach stems from the research of M. Csikszentmihalyi  on flow, which indicates that when challenges and skills are in balance this can lead to optimal learning. 

 

• Dual-coding theory

Mayer’s Dual Coding Theory tells us that we process information from two separate channels (auditory and visual) and that we learn best when information is provided simultaneously through both channels. 

 

• Personalized learning approach

Research tells us that learning is more meaningful when the context is relatable and familiar. Through project-based learning, we tailor the contexts that students are presented with to individual student interests. 

 

Reach out if you would like to come in for an information session and learn more about how we implement our approach in the classroom.