B2B language courses: choosing the right course method

In an increasingly globalised world, language courses are becoming a necessity for companies wishing to remain competitive in their market. But can you train employees properly? How do you choose the most effective method to ensure an efficient increase in skills?

Dans cet article, nous analysons quatre modalités de formation :

• In-person classes.
• Remote classes.
• Mixed learning.
• Full Access.

In-person classes

In-person language courses are the most traditional approach, creating a fully immersive experience.

This method allows for direct interaction with the trainer and/or the other participants.

In-person courses have a lot of benefits:

• It is a flexible approach, allowing for private, duo or group courses.
• Oral skills are encouraged and developed through interactivity and collaboration.
• Learners receive immediate feedback on their pronunciation, grammar and vocabulary from their trainer.
• Learners gain confidence in speaking the foreign language.

It allows for a rapid improvement in language skills, as well as an increase in motivation and learning.

However, in-person language courses come with certain logistical constraints and additional costs, for example to and from the class. In addition, employees can struggle with finding the time to attend classes.

Despite these, in-person courses are an interesting option if your employees wish to benefit from a fully immersive experience.

Distance learning

Distance language training has become accessible to all in recent years. Thanks to interactive video tools, language trainers can offer a similar experience to in-person training, without the logistical drawbacks:

• Learners will be able to interact live with their trainer and/or other participants to help them develop their linguistic skills.
• They will benefit from instant feedback from their trainer.
• The ability to record sessions allows learners to rewatch the videos at a later date.

However, despite its many benefits, distance learning can present challenges:

• The Internet connection can sometimes be unstable, leading to interruptions and reduced audio or video quality.
• Some may experience a lack of direct interaction during the class, affecting their motivation and commitment.

However, for employees with time or travel constraints, remote learning offers a practical and effective alternative to in-person training.

Mixed learning

Mixed learning combines the best of both approaches and includes:

• In-person classes.
• Distance learning.
• E-learning tools.

Alternating in-person and video sessions offers direct interaction with their language tutor and other learners, while adapting to time and geolocation constraints.

Access to e-learning materials completes their learning experience with :

• Additional resources, such as video courses and PDFs.
• Interactive exercises.
• Assessments.

The main benefit of the mixed learning approach is its flexibility. Learners can take advantage of live classes to receive immediate feedback and practice the language. Online lessons, on the other hand, allow learners to work independently and build their skills at their own pace.

However, this approach requires careful planning to integrate the two formats seamlessly and ensure a consistent learning experience. The cost of this modality can also be higher.

Full Access

Finally, Full Access offers a completely autonomous approach to language learning. Employees have access to an online portal, where they can follow courses adapted to:

• Their current language level.
• Their profession and assignments.
• Their interests.

This method offers great flexibility, as learners can choose when and where they study. Online course materials, such as videos, interactive exercises and assessment tests, allow learners to progress at their own pace.

However, full access may not be suitable for all learners. Some people prefer human interaction and need the structure of an instructor-led course. In addition, this method requires a high level of motivation and self-discipline in order to progress independently.

In summary

There are several ways of providing language training within companies, each with its own benefits and drawbacks:

• In-person training offers total immersion and direct interaction.
• Le 100 % distanciel permet une grande flexibilité.
• Mixed learning combines the best of both approaches, with an enriched hybrid experience.
• Full Access offers total autonomy for motivated learners.

In order to choose the most suitable method for your employees, it is essential to take into account:

• Their specific language goals
• Their logistical constraints.
• Your budget.

A personalised approach, combining different methods, can also be considered to meet the specific needs of your company.

Whichever option you choose, B2B language courses remain a valuable investment in your employees' professional development and your company's growth in a multilingual world.

Speak'Pro, your partner for B2B language training

Speak'Pro has been working with companies to provide adapted and innovative language courses since 2010. We use a unique method, combining :

• The analysis of your employees’ starting level.
• The definition of your HR goals and the useful language level required by your employees.
• The creation of a training programme that is 100% adapted to your needs and expectations.

We work with you to choose the most appropriate training method for your needs and according to the availability of your employees, including access to our Digital Learning platform for your employees, regardless of the method chosen, so that they can progress outside of their lessons with the trainer.

Would you like to know more about our B2B language courses? Our team is here to answer all your questions!