Home » Travel » Celtic Internet Resources » Short Courses

Short Courses

© Kelly Vincent

Naturally the only way to really learn a language--at least the spoken aspect--is by full immersion. There are a number of immersion programs for the various Celtic languages, but they run almost exclusively in the summer months. However, many also will host groups at other times if there are enough people. The majority of the classes are offered in the relevant Celtic country, but a sizable number can be found in the US and Canada. These courses often only run a week or two, but sometimes are longer. But whenever, wherever, and however long it is, an immersion course is a perfect augmentation to your language skills.

You may be wondering how these classes operate, especially if you've never taken a formal language class. Most schools offer numerous different levels, so you sign up for the one closest to your level of experience. The cost of the course range, but are rarely cost-prohibitive, at least for the shorter courses. One of the biggest issues is usually that you are very limited in choices of accommodation, because the schools are often in rural locations. So you may have to spend $30 a night for a room at the school.

The classes are always at least moderately intensive, given the short time. The weeklong (and longer) courses usually run classes from 9-4. These classes usually deal grammar in the morning and conversation in the afternoon. Groups are always fairly small (such as 10 students or less) and classes are consequently rather casual. There may be a formal grammar lecture, but it is usually acceptable to intterrupt with pertinant questions. The conversation classes involve different techniques, from working in pairs on simple exercises to speaking directly with the teacher to practicing vocabulary lists together. Songs may be learned to get used to pronunciation. The teacher may begin class by drilling everyone with similar questions for a few minutes, then switch to playing a game of Clue. So every class is different. Relevant cultural activities, such as musical sessions, plays, and poetry readings, generally fill the evenings. Sometimes a voluntary conversation group also is available in the evenings.

For the immersion weekends, expect to be engaged every hour of the weekend. Usually the schedule is full from Friday evening to Sunday evening, with classes and activities similar to the week-long classes, sometimes more intense, sometimes not.

Just remember that everyone learns a different amount from the classes. The point is not to become an expert in a weekend or even a month-long class, but tobecome familiar and more comfortable with the language.

The copyright of the article Short Courses in Celtic Internet Resources is owned by Kelly Vincent. Permission to republish Short Courses in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.