Your teacher is a walking, talking resource bank that can not only answer all your queries and concerns, but also give you that gentle push to improve yourself in aspects of the language that you may find boring (such as grammar), but are crucial to understand.

Learning any foreign language is a multifaceted journey that requires dedication, patience and a whole lot of practice. Recent arguments have raised the question whether the classroom is a necessary part of this process – particularly in learning English, to which a plethora of websites, mobile apps and both online and offline resources is dedicated. 

So, with English so readily available around us, what are the benefits of signing up to a face-to-face course? Here are four reasons why it is still a good idea to join a class to further improve your English abilities:

Teacher’s guidance

Many of your questions on English are likely so specific, that a quick internet search won’t even come close to answering them. And oftentimes, clear explanations on complex grammar can be more effective when given in a way that is dynamic and relevant to you. This is where the teacher comes in as a crucial guide to your English language development. Your teacher is a walking, talking resource bank that can not only answer all your queries and concerns, but also give you that gentle push to improve yourself in aspects of the language that you may find boring (such as grammar), but are crucial to understand.

English-only environment

The moment you step into an English classroom, you immerse yourself in the language and leave your native tongue behind for an extended period of time. This is a very strong and motivational learning tool that cannot be duplicated by accessing a mobile application or YouTube channel at home. As an English-only environment, the classroom compels you to practice all the crucial skills – speaking, reading, writing and listening – to strengthen your grasp on the language.

Joining a course will provide you with a sense of discipline, because in a classroom, you’ll have no choice but to focus all your attention on learning English for the next hour or two – without the interruption of your favourite TV show, YouTube channel or social media platform!

Like-minded learners

Unless you’ve chosen to take private, one-on-one lessons with a teacher, joining a course allows you to interact with fellow learners who have a common goal, namely to practice and strengthen their English skills. These classmates can help boost your motivation through your shared experience, essentially giving you a confidant off whom you can bounce ideas and questions, both inside and outside the classroom.

Discipline

The notion of learning English on your own time, at your own pace and in the comfort of your own home is very attractive indeed. But like any challenging and time-consuming task that you must do on your own, learning can often take the backseat when more alluring distractions pop up. How often have you told yourself that you will continue your web-based lesson after watching just one more episode of Game of Thrones or Grey’s Anatomy? Joining a course will provide you with a sense of discipline, because in a classroom, you’ll have no choice but to focus all your attention on learning English for the next hour or two – without the interruption of your favourite TV show, YouTube channel or social media platform!

So, why not give this proven learning tool a chance and sign up to an English course?