Columbus Spanish Place — Local services in Columbus

I've been enjoying learning Spanish here. I give 4 stars instead of 5 for the following reasons: 1) The website doesn't explain the levels very well, and I never got the results of my placement test so I just chose the level I thought would be best. The website also doesn't explain which textbook(s) are needed very clearly. 2) They say the classes are 100% Spanish, but it's more like 85-90%. Both teachers I've had revert to English when explaining things, which isn't necessary in a true immersion environment. I've done true 100% immersions classes before, so I know how it should be. 3) There's no opportunity to provide teacher feedback at the end of the session. Other language schools usually offer this. 4) The pace is a little slow and there is a bit of overlap between classes. For example, finishing A1 takes about 10 months (three session and then the "plus" class) and then completing A2 is another 10 months. So after 20 months you've completed basic Spanish and are ready for intermediate.

Despite these things, I think the classes are fairly well structured. There is a good variety of reading exercises, homework, and speaking. To get the most of of the classes, you should study on your own for a few hours a week and listen to videos/podcasts in Spanish to supplement what you've learned in class. I will likely continue to take classes here for at least a few more levels because I enjoy the structured learning...

My teacher at Columbus Spanish Place for the first two levels was Augustine Nieves. Augustine is an excellent educator. The level of vitality he brings to teaching is exceptional. It is clear Augustine engages both discriminating and constructive intelligence in his considerations about teaching and learning. An example of this was his decision to include information in class that had been omitted from the present edition of our text book. His instruction exceeded my expectations by including information and reflections about Spanish and Latin American cultures, histories, idioms, and variations of language across the Spanish speaking world. Augustine is kind and generous with his students. The classroom environment his style of interaction creates is conducive to the development of learning community. As a result of my experience with Augustine, I would definitely recommend Columbus Spanish Place to aspiring Spanish...

My experience with Columbus Spanish Place is that it is a wonderful place to take classes. Some of the reviews talks about the classes being in complete immersion as a negative but what is a better way to learn a language. It is the closest thing we can simulate that experience outside of moving to a Spanish speaking country.

The teachers are wonderful and very patient. We work on practical skills that can apply to everyday life while challenging us to learn the grammar of the language.

It is very intimidating at first since class is in 100% Spanish. However, the more effort you put in for class reaps a bigger reward.

I am currently taking my 4th session after learning Spanish on my own for 3 years and this place has definitely helped me get to the next level. At this pace, I truly do believe that I can become as close to fluent...