How enterprises can teach foreign languages effectively?

Adequate planning and execution of language training brings many benefits to an enterprise. In this article, we will discuss how to use a professional language course in a company effectively and the most important factors affecting its effectiveness.

Participants' initial competence

To get the most out of a professional in-company language course, it is essential to assess the participants' level of proficiency before starting. Before the course begins, it is a good idea to conduct a test to help determine each person's language level. Professional language tests or 'audits' assess in four categories and give objective, comparable results.

With proper testing, it becomes possible to tailor the course content to the needs of each group of learners so that each person can progress at the right pace and level of difficulty, deriving maximum benefit from the company's language course and making the best use of the budget. 

A professional language audit with each participant before the start of the language training course will also allow for subsequent demonstration of learning progress. 

Tailoring the course programme to the needs of the company

Another important factor influencing the effectiveness of a language course in a company is the adaptation of the programme to the needs of the institution. Before starting the course, it is advisable to conduct a thorough analysis to determine what language skills are most desirable for employees in specific positions.

Based on this information, a language course programme can be designed that focuses on specific topics and situations related to the company's operations and the individual participants' responsibilities. In this way, course participants will be able to put the skills they have learnt into practice straight away, increasing the effectiveness of their learning. Satisfaction with perceived progress in language learning, which translates into professional achievements, also promotes motivation for further ambitious learning, putting the company budget to the best use. 

Qualifications and experience of course leaders

Choosing the correct language instructors is crucial to the success of a training course. The language trainers must be qualified and experienced in teaching foreign languages. They should not only be proficient in the language but also be able to impart knowledge excitingly and effectively.

Having specialized in corporate training for more than 20 years, we know how important it is for a teacher to have experience working with business clients, understanding their requirements and adhering to appropriate standards of conduct. 

Good instructors adapt their teaching methods to the different learning styles of participants and use a variety of teaching materials. This allows for more engaging lessons and more effective language learning.

Teaching methods and teaching materials

Choosing suitable teaching methods and teaching materials is essential for the effectiveness of a language course. Many different approaches and techniques can be used when learning a language. It is worth choosing the ones that will be most effective for a given group of learners.

Well-designed teaching materials are also vital. They should be interesting, understandable and adapted to the participants' level. It is also important that they are up-to-date and consider the various communication situations that employees may encounter in their work. Each POZENA course is prepared specifically for each participant or group of participants, according to client guidelines and the results of language audits. 

Progress monitoring, effectiveness evaluation and reporting

To prove the effectiveness of a company's language course, it is essential to carry out regular monitoring of participants' progress. This can be done through standard tests, homework assignments, follow-up interviews or other assessment forms.

Through monitoring, participants' progress can be tracked, areas requiring additional work can be identified, and the course programme can be adjusted if necessary. Also, it is important to regularly evaluate the effectiveness of the course itself and make adjustments if required to ensure the highest possible quality of learning.

The goals and content of the course program itself should be evaluated regularly.

Institutional clients have the right to objectively assess the return on investment of language courses for employees. The budget spent on language training should be reflected in the demonstrated new skills of the employees. Regular language audits serve this purpose. We also report on other parameters the client requires, including the attendance statistics for each participant. 

At POZENA Language Centre, we specialize in providing language training for international corporates, with a unique focus on teaching Polish as a foreign language, both on-site in Poland and online globally. We will be delighted to discuss how we can help enhance your employees' language skills and maximize your training budget.