Shelby
Overall
Overall, I really enjoy the Fast Conversational Spanish program. The content is engaging, and I’ve learned a lot so far. However, I think the way the program is structured could be improved to make it more effective for learners to succeed. While it's marketed as a "fast" program, the pace feels inconsistent. Sometimes the lessons move too quickly without enough reinforcement, while other times there’s too much repetition without advancing the material. It would be helpful if there was a clearer roadmap of where the program is headed, including more milestones or check-ins even feedback from the teachers to track progress. A more structured progression would help learners feel confident that they are advancing step-by-step. I appreciate the instructor interaction, but sometimes the lack of feedback doesn’t seem timely enough to correct mistakes early. More regular or prompt feedback could be beneficial. Reply; Thank you for your detailed reply. I appreciate the time you took to address each of the points I raised. I understand that the program offers a lot of resources, and I acknowledge that I may not have fully taken advantage of every aspect. However, my review was based on “my personal experience” and “my perception as a learner”, and I shared it in the spirit of providing CONSTRUCTIVE feedback not to cause DEFENSIVENESS. While I understand that the program is self-paced, the feeling of inconsistency I mentioned comes from how the material and lessons are presented, not necessarily the availability of resources. It might be helpful for learners if there were clearer prompts or suggestions on when to move forward or review; For Example, it was presented after passing the Beginner Reading Test we could move onto Beginner Conversation and Beginner Vocab but not move onto Intermediate Reading…Some of the decisions on pacing can feel a bit ambiguous, especially for those who aren’t as confident in their progress. Regarding the roadmap, I do see the structure of Levels 1, 2, 3, and 4, but more guidance on how to incorporate the various resources (like live classes, videos, and tests) in a cohesive way would help. For example, while I know there are unlimited live classes, it would be great to have suggestions on how frequently to take them or integrate them into the learning plan based on individual progress. Lastly, about feedback, I didn’t intend to suggest that coaches aren’t giving it, but rather that more frequent, specific, or actionable feedback would be useful in some cases. I don’t feel it is necessary to do this over an accountability call as my learning experience differs from the next student on the call. While I’ve made progress, more direct input on areas of weakness early on could be beneficial to avoid building bad habits. I appreciate the follow-up and remain committed to completing the program. I’m confident that with a bit more structure or guidance, it could be even more effective for learners like me.
Response from Fast Conversational SpanishSep 30, 2024
Hi Shelby, thanks for your feedback. Based on your feedback, you and I were able to have a productive call, and I believe we have managed to find & resolve the biggest challenges & misunderstandings. You have a new accountability and study plan set up, so we look forward to your updated review in a few months! In the meantime, I will leave my initial replies here, to outline in more detail how we provide classes, support & accountability in the program. 1. Pace The program is entirely self-paced, which means it goes as fast or slow as you want. That includes unlimited live classes to practice as much as you want, and video lessons you can study as fast or as slow as you want. If a lesson is easy, move on. If it's hard, spend more time. And every possible lesson, and every possible conversation, is covered in our program. Whatever question or topic isn't covered, if you ask, we create a new lesson for it. There should never be a lack of content based on your needs and interests. 2. Accountability Our accountability coach has weekly check-ins, as well as 24/7 whatsapp service to contact all of the coaches anytime you are stuck. 3. Roadmap We have a roadmap laid out in our levels 1, 2, 3, 4, clearly explaining step by step what to study, and what to practice in your daily routine. If you are confused by the roadmap, you have us available 24/7 to text or call, as well as coaches in class to ask. We are confident that no school on earth gives more support and accountability, we are constantly there whenever you need. 4. Tests We have 4 tests - pronunciation, beginner, intermediate, and advanced, to evaluate your progress. 5. Reinforcing the materials The reinforcement of the materials should be what you are doing in the unlimited daily class - our conversation classes, reading & listening classes, verbs class, grammar classes - we have classes for every possible aspect of Spanish you need to practice. The videos won't ever be enough, you always have to practice. 6. Coach feedback Coaches give instant feedback in classes when you make mistakes, as well as when you text us in the group chats. If they don't, you should bring that up to us, as that is our job, and we discuss student progress on a weekly basis. On our recent call, you and I cleared up how to help you get more feedback, so hopefully this issue is solved. 7. Communication We've tried to get in touch with you many times, and I've again reached out for a call, so let us know when you'd like to get support, and we'll make sure you're continuing on the right track, as you are not finished with the program yet, and we are still working with you. We have no doubt we'll get you to your goals, as long as you follow the steps. Thanks