Spanish Language Program

  Dominican Republic

• Santiago: 
Santiago

Term: Throughout the year 
Length of Position: open
Durations of Program: 1-2 weeks, 2-4 weeks, 5-8 weeks and 9-12 weeks
Typical Duration of Program: 1-2 weeks

Description: American Language Partnership International is located in Santiago, Dominican Republic. Over the years ALPI has been designing, implementing, and consulting on English language programs for local high schools, private institutes, and businesses around the island. Today, ALPI has a new five level facility situated in the heart of downtown Santiago where you'll find internet access, air conditioned classrooms, conference rooms, and classrooms with video and audio equipment.

Programs offered are: the intensive Spanish Language Program, TESOL Exchange Program, and a church volunteer program. The Spanish Language Program immerses students in the culture of the Spanish speaking Caribbean. Language learning takes place in and out of the classroom. With frequent trips to the local markets, cafes, and restaurants, students will have ample hands on opportunities to practice the spanish they're learning. Students will participate in daily life with their Dominican professors, fellow student, and ALPI's Dominican student population. Students of Spanish will study in groups of no more than 6, or on a one to one basis if they so choose.

TESOL exchange program offers: courses in pedagogy, teacher workshops, and a teacher practicum where teachers will have the opportunity to teach at ALPI's English Language Program. Participants will have the occasion to exchange ideas and activities through workshops, seminars and in the classroom. Participants in ALPI's programs are encouraged to take advantage of the social and cultural activities organized by ALPI which take place around the city. Included also are guided tours to the most spectacular spots around the island. Accomodations include homestays or private apartments walking distance from ALPI.

Highlights: Programs Offered by ALPI

ALPI offers a variety of programs, cultural activities and travel opportunities. Select from one of the exciting schedules or you may wish to tailor a schedule to your own personal requirements.

- Spanish Language Immersion Program
- TESOL Exchange Program
- English Language Program
- ALPI's faculty is composed of experienced North American and Dominican high school and university professors. The pedagogical approach is communicative with a solid foundation in grammar.
- ALPI's Spanish Language Program employs a popular text widely used in universities across the United States. All students are given a placement test to assess their skills and to assure appropriate assignment to a group. Levels may be changed to individual student needs.
- Spanish Language learning, however, takes place in and out of the classroom. With frequent trips to the local markets, cafes, restaurants, students will have ample hands-on opportunities to practice the Spanish they're learning. Such "real life" practice in conjunction with the use of an acclaimed textbook will have students making tremendous advances regardless of their level. Either way, ALPI's dedicated staff will help make your experience in the Dominican Republic comforable, safe and hassle-free.

Degree Level: Bachelors Degree (Undergraduate)

Qualifications: ESL teachers and teachers-in-training may intermingle and work with ALPI's Dominican students of English.
Those with little experience can "cut their teeth" on lessons in our classroom with the guidance and full support of our faculty. Dominican students of English are highly appreciative and found of working with participating teachers. Teachers may also take part in seminars sponsored by ALPI at our Santiago location. Please contact us for further information.

Cost in US$: 350+

Students who choose ALPI's Home Stay Program become guests of Dominican families in their homes. This exposure to everyday family life in Santiago will provide you with the optimuim opportunity to practice your developing skills, and may be the most effective way to refine your Spanish.

You will be placed in a comfortable home within walking distance from ALPI. Guests will be furnished with a comfortable private room, linens and towels, breakfast & dinner, and laundry service. The families are carfully chosen and screened to ensure a secure and comfortable stay. Many of our students have felt that the home stay was the most rewarding part of their experience, and often the home stay has led to a long lasting friendship with their host family. If you prefer a place of your own, we will be happy to place you in our own private apartment also walking distance to ALPI. Apartments are equipped with cable, 24-hour security, uninterupted water and electric, laundry machine and kitchenette.

Salary / Pay: depending on internship

Experience Required: no

Typical Volunteer: Alpi's programs are open to anyone interested in travel/study programs in the Dominican Republic. The TESOL exchange program is popular with ESL teachers looking for a work abroad program. ALPI's Church Volunteer Program offers local church activities to those participating in ALPI's Spanish Language Program. Those interested only in Spanish language study are placed in either their own private studio apartment or in a homestay. All ALPI clients regardless of their program are welcome to take advantage in the social activities and excursions to the island's hot spots.

Age Range: open

This Program is open to Families, Couples and Individuals

Participants Travel to Dominican Republic Independently

Typically Participants Work Independently or in Groups of 1-6

Application Process Involves:

• Phone Interview
• Resume

Post-Program Services Include:

• Job and Internship Network

American Language Partnership International's Mission Statement: Over the years ALPI has been designing, implementing, and consulting on English language programs for local high schools, private institutes, and businesses around the island.

Year Founded: 2003