PersonalSpanish.net is run by Karla Miranda whose online resume can be found on LinkedIn.
We know you must have many questions about taking private online classes with our tutors. Here are some quick answers.
1. What does the curriculum look like?
Our classes cover three main stages of learning:
- Beginner level: Covers simple conversation and vocabulary to allow students to express themselves in the present tense and conjugate regular and irregular verbs. Near the end of the course basic past tense and reflexive verbs are introduced.
- Intermediate level: Indirect and direct object pronouns, imperfect tense, present perfect tense and the future tense. Students are introduced to a variety of expressions, vocabulary, and cultural aspects of the language. Closing lessons include the uses of por and para, and the formal and informal commands. The classes emphasize pronunciation, vocabulary, writing and reading.
- Advanced level: Explores the use of the present subjunctive mood and advanced grammar. The introduction of past subjunctive, conditional tense and relative pronouns occurrs in later classes. The course includes various exercises in reading, writing and conversation
All online classes are designed with the active participation of the individual student.
2. How do online classes work?
Our personalized internet classes are conducted using Skype, the free online video conferencing software. This technology allows students and their teachers to speak and see each other in real time via their computers. This is as close as you can get to sitting across the table from your very own personal tutor. It is so convenient, you can have your class at home, work, school, on vacation or even in your favorite coffee shop.
3. What kind of hardware and software do I need?
You need a standard computer running Windows 2000/XP/Vista, Mac or Linux; at least 1 GHz processor; a minimum of 256MB RAM Broadband internet connection; speakers and a microphone; and webcam (Optional). You will also need Skype software, which can be downloaded for free here.
4. How do I install Skype?
Installing Skype is quick and easy. Just go click here to download. You will be walked through the installation process.
5. What payment methods do you accept?
We accept Visa, MasterCard, American Express and Discover cards as well as Paypal payments.
6. What are the teachers’ backgrounds?
All our private teachers are native Spanish speakers. They have previous experience teaching Spanish to English speakers from beginner to advanced levels.
7. What teaching methodology do you use?
Our goal is to increase your conversational fluency. Therefore, we place emphasis on conversation, infusing a mix of vocabulary, grammar and dialogue into the lessons. Each student is different, however, making it necessary to tailor each class to the needs and goals of each student. If a student prefers to learn a certain way or would like to study a certain topic, we will adapt to your needs. After all, you are the client.
8. What kind of teaching materials do you use?
We have a series of proprietary lessons that we pass out to students. At times they are created just for a particular student.
9. Do you give 1 free trial lesson?
Yes. We offer 1 free trial lesson, where you will meet your private teacher, discuss your goals in learning Spanish, gauge you level of Spanish so we can develop a learning plan specific to your needs.
10. Do you have a money back guarantee?
Yes, we have a 100% money back guarantee. Although we do not expect this to be an issue, we do not believe you should be charged if you feel your class was not worthwhile. In order to receive a 100% money back guarantee, you must contact us within 48 hours of your class to be refunded your money. Refunds will only be made for the classes for which you ask for a refund.
11. How do I book a lesson?
We provide you with an online calendar with the availability of your teacher. If you see an open time slot, send an email to our scheduling team, and we will reply with an email confirming your lesson time.
12. Do I pay before or after the class?
Lessons must be paid for 24 hours prior to the class. In order to receive discounts, 9+ classes must be booked in advance.
13. How do I pay for lessons?
Lessons can be paid for by credit card (Visa, MasterCard, American Express and Discover) or via a Pay Pal. Once you book a class, we send you an email with an invoice that can be paid online.
14. How many lessons do you recommend I take a week?
For serious students, we recommend three 50 minute lessons a week. Three lessons a week keeps learning fresh, and provides the student with the rhythm and the pace to learn quickly. We do, however, work with students taking only one lesson per week. Their learning pace is just slower than it would be with more lessons.
15. Are you flexible with scheduling?
We understand that you may have a busy and unpredictable schedule. Therefore as long as your teacher has availability in his or her schedule, we can rearrange classes.
16. What happens if I cannot attend a class and have to cancel?
If you must cancel a class, you will not be charged if you give us 24 hour and the credit will go to your next class. If you do not show up for a class or cancel a class within less than 24 hours, you will be charged full price for the lesson.
17. Do you teach on the weekends?
Some teachers do teach on the weekend. Please check with the availability of your teacher to see if this is an option.
18. What if I don’t like my instructor?
Although this has not normally been a problem, if you do no not feel comfortable with your teacher, we will place you with another teacher.
19. What if a teacher does not show up for class?
While this should not be a problem, if your teacher does not show up for a class, you will receive one class free.
20. What if the internet connection is poor or goes down?
If the internet connection is poor or goes down, the class will be rescheduled for a later date. Because it is difficult to tell from which end stems the problem, there will be no refund for the class.
21. How much are classes?
Go to price page to know the updated pricelist
22. Does the price include sales tax?
The price includes sales tax.
23. Do you recommend classes with Personal Spanish even if I am studying on my own?
Yes, for maximum learning, we encourage our students to study on their own. Some of our students take university courses, use self-study software, or just teach themselves from a text book. Since we emphasize conversation, our classes are a perfect complement to self-study.
24. Why is it important to learn Spanish now?
Spanish is becoming an important part of everyday life both in your job and daily conversation. In this video Governor Tim Kaine of Virginia (2006 – 2010) explains why it is important to him, and he talks a little Spanish too!
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If you any other questions please feel free to contact us by email.
