Spanish for specific purposes, intercultural learning and teaching languages.<

Spanish for specific purposes, intercultural learning and teaching languages.

In my case I graduated in Tourism, and I have worked in this and other sectors linked to the command of several languages.  This led me to study and to examine the topic of second languages, in my case English, Euskera and French in more depth.

I would also like to point out how practical the course is and how up-to-date it is with what actually goes on in the classroom.

I have seen many of the situations and deficiencies which arise in present-day classrooms covered in this course, and the internships provide entirely suitable opportunities to reflect on them.
I am particularly interested in the module on Spanish for Specific Purposes, because Spanish is becoming more important in international business relations, and because it shows how crucial it is to adapt the training and contents to the target group.

On this topic I want to mention the article “The Intercultural Communication and Teaching of Languages” from the virtual library, which clearly shows how a business meeting between a Catalonian businessman and one from Germany would take place. In the same way as in any other communicative context, what is appropriate in Germany might not be so appropriate in Spain and vice versa.

This aspect goes far beyond correcting language and includes being able to adapt to a specific context.  It clearly demonstrates that as teachers we need to work with activities which provide information about Spanish customs, communication styles and culture, including those from the region or regions of Spain which our target group are going to visit. At this stage it is important to take into account the stereotypes which arise and which act as prejudices when it comes to speaking Spanish.  The following article published in the Instituto Cervantes library analyses a specific example, and proposes a model for dealing with this topic in the context of businesses. In my opinion it is document which invites us to reflect on this question:http://cvc.cervantes.es/ensenanza/biblioteca_ele/publicaciones_centros/PDF/munich_2005 -2006/06_suarez.pdf

All things considered, what I have found most beneficial about this course is the guidance on the role of teachers, not only regarding the knowledge and skills which should be acquired but also regarding the attitude and values you should have, so that you can develop a motivating teaching practice which allows students to communicate effectively.