The methodological approach at alpha beta piccadilly has been developed by our language department over many years of research and practical testing and continues to be revised, adapted and refined.
Our teaching is based on four principles:
The focus is on the learner as a whole person.
Activities aim to involve learners emotionally and physically and on conscious as well as subconscious levels.
Learning is a process of development.
The learner’s language (even of a complete beginner) is viewed holistically and allowed to grow and develop naturally. Grammar and other form-based aspects of language are always worked on in a meaningful context and importance is given to reading and listening to authentic texts, as well as free speaking and writing.
The main goal is the development of communicative competence.
Communication, however, is not only the goal but also our way of working in the classroom. Everything is geared towards communication and learners are made familiar with this from the start. Continuous practice leads to rapid progress in the ability to communicate with native speakers and to deal constructively with difficulties in understanding.
Autonomous learning is developed in parallel with communicative competence.
Our teachers support this through a learner-centred approach which encourages active participation. Lessons are focused on the learners, who should be aware of how to make the most of the classroom activities and also adopt strategies for independent learning outside the classroom.
Apart from attending a course, we also offer a range of opportunities for learners to organise and manage their learning individually and autonomously; before, during or after a group or one-to-one course.
The levels of alpha beta piccadilly courses are based on the levels of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages, which was developed by the Council of Europe, in order to make personal learning paths and goals more transparent.
