FAQs - Language
Frequently Asked Questions
Da Vinci Learning Centre is more than just a language school; it's a cultural immersion experience. As a part of ItaloWorld, a not-for-profit cultural association, the centre is dedicated to bringing Italian language and culture to life. Unlike traditional language schools, the centre emphasises conversational skills and practical use of the language, taught by native Italian instructors. This focus on real-world application, combined with a deep dive into Italian culture, sets it apart.
The centre caters to learners at all levels, from complete beginners to advanced speakers. The courses are designed to accommodate different stages of language proficiency, ensuring that everyone, regardless of their starting point, can embark on their Italian language journey effectively.
The courses at Da Vinci Learning Centre seamlessly blend language learning with cultural immersion. This integration includes exploring Italian art, cuisine, history, and traditions as part of the curriculum. By learning about the cultural context in which the language is used, students gain a deeper understanding and appreciation of both the language and the rich Italian heritage.
The instructors at the centre are native Italian speakers who are not only proficient in the language but also deeply passionate about sharing their culture. They bring firsthand knowledge of Italy's traditions and history. Quality control is overseen by Armando Cristofori, a native of Como, Italy, who holds University qualifications in Education and Italian Language & Culture, ensuring high educational standards.
Classes at the centre are immersive and conversation focused. Instructors primarily speak in Italian, encouraging students to engage with the language actively from day one. While English explanations are provided when necessary, the emphasis is on practical conversational skills. Group classes are structured in eight-week modules, with one session per week, and are tailored to different learning levels. One-on-one classes can start anytime. This approach ensures a balance between structured learning and practical application.
The focus on conversation at Da Vinci Learning Centre enhances language learning by immersing students in practical and everyday use of Italian. This approach helps students develop fluency and confidence in speaking, which is often the most challenging aspect of language learning. By prioritising conversation, students learn to think and respond in Italian more naturally, facilitating a deeper understanding of the language and its nuances.
Yes, the centre offers various immersive experiences to complement classroom learning. These include cultural events, workshops, and activities like the ItaloWorld bilingual Toastmasters workshops. These opportunities allow students to practice Italian in diverse contexts, deepening their understanding of both the language and Italian culture. Additionally, students can participate in cultural classes and weekly meetups to further immerse themselves in the Italian experience.
The centre offers flexible pricing options to suit different needs and budgets. Personalised one-on-one classes are available starting at approximately $60 to $50 per hour. Small group classes, with no more than five learners, are priced at about $35 to $30 per hour. Larger group classes, accommodating up to fifteen students, are offered at approximately $20 to $15 per hour. These options ensure that learning Italian is accessible to a wide range of learners.
Yes, ItaloWorld is currently in the process of raising funds which will allow us to offer scholarships in 2025 to individuals facing financial challenges. We believe in making education accessible to all and encourages those in need of financial assistance to contact us for more information. This commitment reflects our dedication to inclusivity and our mission to spread Italian language and culture.
Group classes at the centre are structured in eight-week modules, with classes held once a week. This format allows for consistent progression in learning while accommodating the busy schedules of adult learners. The weekly classes ensure a steady pace of learning and provide ample opportunity for students to practice and assimilate what they have learned between sessions. One-on-one classes can start anytime.
Quality control at Da Vinci Learning Centre is a top priority, personally overseen by Armando Cristofori, a native Italian with extensive educational background. The centre regularly reviews and enhances its teaching methods and materials, ensuring they meet the highest standards. This approach ensures that the learning experience is not only effective but also up-to-date and culturally relevant. Additionally, instructors are native speakers, providing authenticity in both language and cultural knowledge.
Yes, students are encouraged to participate in volunteer activities and community events organised by ItaloWorld. These opportunities include assisting with the annual Carnevale di Venezia [Venice Carnival] in Jan/Feb, Natale di Roma [Rome’s Birthday] celebrations on April 21st, Festa della Repubblica [Republic/Independence Day] on June 2nd, and ItaloWeek 10-day event in early October. Volunteering allows students to immerse themselves deeper in Italian culture, practice the language in real-world settings, and contribute to the vibrant ItaloWorld community.
Beyond classroom sessions, learners have various opportunities to practice Italian. This includes participating in the Italo Toastmasters workshops, conducted on the 1st & 3rd Thu. of every month, Da Vinci cultural classes, and ItaloWorld – Italian Language & Culture Exchange Meetup, on the 2nd & 4th Thu. of every month. These activities provide a supportive environment for practicing Italian and help students apply their language skills in diverse and engaging contexts, enhancing their learning experience.
Instructors at the centre integrate Italian dialects into the curriculum to give students a comprehensive understanding of the language's diversity. While the primary focus is on standard Italian, exposure to different dialects enriches the learning experience, providing insights into the regional variations and cultural nuances within Italy. This holistic approach to teaching Italian fosters a deeper appreciation and understanding of the language.
The centre recognises the importance of Italian in professional contexts and offers specialised programs and workshops tailored to such needs. These programs focus on business Italian and industry-specific vocabulary, preparing learners for professional interactions, whether in trade, culinary arts, fashion, or other fields where Italian is beneficial. The centre's goal is to equip learners with the language skills needed to excel in their professional endeavours.
Da Vinci Learning Centre recognises the diversity of learning styles and needs among its students. To accommodate this, the centre offers personalised one-on-one classes, small group sessions, and larger classes, allowing learners to choose the format that best suits their learning preferences. Additionally, the instructors are trained to adapt their teaching methods to various learning styles, ensuring an inclusive and effective learning environment for all students.
The centre values the feedback of its students highly. There is a structured feedback mechanism in place, where students can share their experiences and suggestions regarding classes, teaching methods, and materials. This feedback is regularly reviewed and used to make continuous improvements. The centre believes that active engagement with students' feedback is crucial to maintaining the quality and relevance of the learning experience.
Italo Voices bilingual workshops are designed to improve both language and presentation skills. These workshops provide a supportive and interactive environment where learners can practice speaking Italian while also developing their presentation and communication skills. Conducted on the 1st & 3rd Wednesday of every month, these workshops are a great way for students to gain confidence in their Italian speaking abilities and to connect with fellow learners.
Learning Italian at the centre prepares students for travel or work in Italy by focusing on conversational skills and cultural insights. The courses are designed to equip learners with practical language abilities, essential for navigating everyday situations in Italy, whether in a professional setting or while traveling. The cultural components of the courses also provide students with an understanding of Italian customs and etiquette, which is invaluable for both working and living in Italy.
Enrolling in courses at Da Vinci Learning Centre is a straightforward process. Interested individuals can contact the centre directly to inquire about course availability, schedules, and pricing. Group classes are structured in eight-week modules with one lesson per week, with new sessions typically starting at regular intervals throughout the year. One-on-one classes can start anytime. The centre's staff can provide detailed information on the next available class and assist with the enrolment process.
We hope this Q&A provides a comprehensive understanding of the Da Vinci Learning Centres language and culture classes. If you have any further questions or need additional information, please feel free to contact us.
Da Vinci Learning Centre: Immerse yourself in Italian culture and language through enriching experiences, interactive workshops, and vibrant community activities that celebrate and deepen your understanding of Italy.
For news & updates follow us
