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How do I Choose the Best French Distance Learning Program?

Tara Barnett
Tara Barnett

In order to choose the best French distance learning program, you must investigate the qualifications of the program thoroughly. Ideally, a program designed to give students improved fluency in the French language will include reading, writing, and speaking components, preferably with conversational practice sessions as well. For advanced French students looking for more than the rudimentary components of language, a detailed reading of French novels might be included or sections on culture and history. The best French distance learning program must adequately prepare students to reach their personal educational goals.

French distance learning programs can be beneficial for students of all levels who are unable to attend classes in a physical location. Reading and writing skills can be taught primarily using texts, and pronunciation can be taught using recordings. Using long distance communication technologies, such as video chats, it is possible for students who are learning French in this manner to improve conversation skills. Given how advanced teaching technologies have become, a French distance learning program can be just as rigorous and effective as a course taken in a school.

A woman taking a French distance learning class.
A woman taking a French distance learning class.

One thing to consider when choosing a French distance learning program is what the credit is for. If you need the credit for educational purposes, then you must make sure that the credit will transfer. On the other hand, if all you want is fluency in French, it may be a better idea to take a less expensive but equally thorough course that may not count for credit.

Distance learning classes frequently involve online lectures and web-based student participation.
Distance learning classes frequently involve online lectures and web-based student participation.

While many schools offer French distance learning programs, not all programs are paced equally. Some people find that they cannot keep up with intensive courses, while others find that normally paced programs are too slow to remain interesting. It is also a good idea to select a course that has a workload that you can commit to for the duration of the course, as it will likely be difficult to get a refund after the course has started.

Distance learning programs are frequently offered through colleges, and these programs are often more reputable and more committed to the success of students than programs that exist solely online. If possible, it is a good idea to look into how many students successfully complete the program, as well as what resources are available to help students succeed. Of course, you must be self-directed when completing a distance learning course, but resources offered by the school can help along the way. Schools that invest in the success of their students often offer the best programs overall as well.

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    • A woman taking a French distance learning class.
      By: Yuri Arcurs
      A woman taking a French distance learning class.
    • Distance learning classes frequently involve online lectures and web-based student participation.
      By: Rido
      Distance learning classes frequently involve online lectures and web-based student participation.