How to Teach Spanish Online

Glasses on keyboard

Teaching a language is usually easier in person, but with advances in technology it is also possible to teach Spanish to students online. It is important to be resourceful and use the power of the Internet to teach a language effectively. Spanish can be taught online through online readings, interactive resources and class interaction.

Things You'll Need

• Spanish syllabus
• Website for online materials
• Online readings
• Dedicated class message board

Instructions

1. Create a Spanish class syllabus. The StudySpanish.com website divides its lessons based on language level. Familiarize beginning students with the language through an interactive vocabulary lesson, such as those found on BBC Languages' Spanish website. A syllabus is all the more important in online classes because it serve as a guide for students within the course of the class. It provides them structure and makes it easier for them to study because they know what to expect.

2. Start a website where you will upload class lectures, notes and audio clips to aid the students. Even if you have assigned them a textbook, it is still important to provide them with other resources to complement the lessons. Audio clips are helpful in listening comprehension. The website SpanishNewsBites.com is a great resource for Spanish audio listening with full transcriptions.

3. Assign Spanish readings online. Spanish readings are available online, through Spanish resource websites or Spanish newspapers such as LaOpinion.com You can communicate with students through the website or by emailing them reading materials. You may also wish to assign homework that they can turn in so you can track their progress.

4. Discuss Spanish lessons on message boards. Try to speak Spanish whenever possible and encourage the students to speak the language as well. This makes the class more interactive and allows students to apply what they've learned. You can include a video chat component on the message boards so you and your students can communicate through video.

5. Add a Spanish resources section on the Web page where you can provide external resources. These resources may include other Spanish textbooks, Spanish audio, travel information, and Spanish culture websites such as DonQuijote.org

References

• Spanish on MIT OpenCourse
• Spanish Newsbites
• Spanish Language Learning on BBC

Resources

• Study Spanish
• American Council on the Teaching of Foreign Languages
• Online Spanish Learning resource