The live training curriculum in Europe's leading blended language learning service naturally makes a difference. The CLT course designers locate the main part of structural learning - grammar, vocabulary and pronunciation - with the self instruction software and the ever present online tutoring service.




Figure 1 In blended learning programmes, students reach their learning target in less time than in traditional face-to-face or pure virtual classroom training.

In live training, CLT trainers use their extensive trainer materials to reinforce those structures in quick reviews. They use their students' time to get right down to business: communication skills and skill transfer.

Every standard CLT classroom session is part of the CLT course plan and follows 5 distinguished steps:

Transferring computer competence: Beginning at the kick-off, students are provided with the tools required to competently and effectively learn with the software element of the blended learning program. At every live training session, however, repeated reference should be made to the software features to check students’ understanding.

Checking learning progress: Students are made aware from the outset that what they learn in their self-study phase will be used in the live training. The easiest way to check students’ progress is to ask targeted questions based on the material covered.

Reinforcing grammar, vocabulary and pronunciation patterns: Whereas the time-consuming introduction and practice phase of learning new structures and vocabulary is performed in the self-study phase, students are expected to actively use these new language elements in the classroom situation. When needed, the trainer can naturally provide insight into the complexities of the language.

Exercising communication skills: Through a variety of speaking-centred activities, students can create and practise verbally what they have learned.

Transferring acquired knowledge to business use: Depending on the branch of industry represented in the classroom, the trainer should then relate what structures and vocabulary have been learned to the students’ professional practice. The trainer will add vocabulary specific to your organisation to the live training sessions.