One-on-one tuition vs. group language classes

Hi ya all,

First off a quick intro, I'm new in Munich, moving here from the Paris region for work (Pharma). I am the scout and will be joined by family, dog and stuff in about 6 months. My origin are a long story as I have been on the move now for at least 3 generations... Let's just say I look and sound American or French but carry a Mexican passport (mostly). If I find the time I'm sure I'll join a TT event one of these days, but my current schedule has a lot of airport in it.

So my question is related to language classes. I need (and want) to learn German and am trying to decide on either one on one classes or evening classes, to supplement the self-training stuff. In this new language I am pretty much a total beginner (although fully fluent in English, Spanish and French). Considering cost is not a major issue (employer will be paying) should I focus on one-on-one classes or is group course work more effective (more structured)?

Has anyone here tried a mix of both? Ideally I'd like to sign up for evening classes and supplement that with 2-4 hrs per week of 1/1, but I don't know if this is the most effective. (And if I can keep a strict schedule due to my travel/work/play arrangements, but that's another issue).

Appreciate the input!

zm

From a language teacher's standpoint, I would recommend starting with a group class, then adding ono-on-one lessons.

In a group the interaction is better and you are explosed to way more than you would be on your own. Once you can make your basic sentences and such, then check into private lessons.

The important thing is to pick a school you like and a qualified teacher. Steer clear of the learn by mimic method classes. These just involve a teacher having you repeat things like a parrot. Check out the thread from this weekend on the best way to learn German too, that might give you some pointers.

Welcome to TT and bueno suerte

Thanks lexicon for the welocme and pointers.

Curious about your POV concerning mimic method, doesn't ASSIMIL, BERLITZ, etc..., work like this?

A lot of my self study is based on #dumb# repetition. I'll look for that thread.

My short list of schools includes: Goethe, DESK, inlingua, Tandem for the time being, mostly from comments on TT.

yeah Berlitz is like the Fiat of Language teaching. It may get you there in the end, but you will most likely not enjoy the ride, wonder what you could have gotten better for your money, and may be left on the side of the rode at any random time.

Inlingua (taught for them once, if you can call it teaching) is copied off of Berlitz. it was started by some former Berlitz people back in the 70's who basically stole their books and started their own school. They make most of their money on selling franchises and not on teaching.

If you can do it, I'd go for the Goethe one. if the company's buying, why not have the best.

The big thing is to try and have as much exposure as possible -- 3 nights a week versus just once a week. That keeps your brain in German mode longer.

Agree 1000% on the keeping the brain in language mode. Had started with the FSI coursework and a personal teacher back in Paris but having just landed here, my time has been spend working with my new staff, and a lot of work related travel - so German brain mode has been low intensity until today.

Not so worried about being left on the side of the road or comfort - my motivation is pretty deeply rooted - and I'm a good car mechanic. Just want a very efficient ride (with some flex for my schedule). I'll see if I can get that from GI.

Hello
I visited Munchen form Virginia USA in October 2006 and I took a beginner German class for 3 weeks at
http://www.bws-germanlingua.de/
they are near Marienplatz , Very good teachers , friendly staff and students. Most students were of college age and some older
"adults" like me. I took classes M-F 0930-1300 and the cost was about 350 EUros a week INCLUDING a small studio apartment
or I think about 175 euros just classes

I learned enough German at BWS to profit from further self study and like the Assimil German without Toil Book/tapes
and Michel Thomas Speak German For Beginners 10CDs , $50 on Amazon.

regards
stephen
drjazz1947@yahoo.com
www.swingkats.com

If your employer is paying then there is no doubt about it - go to the Goethe Institute.

I took German language lessons at the Volkshochschule (Harras), 3 hours, 3 times a week. This school is generally less expensive (the least expensive?), but it can be really hit-and-miss. We had a great teacher, "Madeleine", so the ROI was tops. But I've heard that other teachers can be disappointing. This location also has child-care services - this could be interesting for your wife.

Once you get to the conversational-german level, I would definitely recommend finding a language partner. I meet with mine about once a week for coffee. We speak German for 45 minutes, then French for 45 minutes (I am French speaking). This really helps to improve one's German.

You can find such a partner on Sprachduo München (temporarily down for maintenance), or Sprachduo.org, or some other such website. There are even some postings on the Toytown site. Search term "Sprachduo München".

Good Luck!