Culture Immersion

The MSVL Culture Immersion program is a computer-based online language and culture training program that is provided in a virtual environment. It allows the students to train anywhere in the world via their computer. All the training is in real time and is facilitated by a highly qualified, native speaking, language instructor.

Why do you need it?

We feel you need this program because it will promote your language and cultural confidence when it comes time for you to immerse into the U.S. culture. It will teach you to comprehend and communicate effectively on a daily basis. By the end of class you will have the ability to interact effectively with native speakers, you will be able to make simple requests, purchase common items, talk about various topics such as weather, sports and entertainment, and you will be able to demonstrate knowledge of cultural subtleties.

Why do we do it?

We do this program because we believe that with an increase in visiting international scholars and students in the U.S., there is a vast need for language and immersion training. We have seen countless times the look of defeat on ones face when they enter into U.S. soil, they are overwhelmed and very anxious and we want to eliminate that reaction for them. We want to make it an easier transition for them move into the U.S.

How do you attend class?

You can simply attend class in the comfort of your own home with a computer, high-speed internet connection, and a headset with attached microphone. The classroom is a virtual based classroom with no more than 6 students per class.

How do we do it?

Real-time, interactive, proven Virtual Classroom Environment
Top-notch learning coaches from the U.S. and Canada
Preparatory sessions before departure
Small classes (4-6 students)
Practical and immersive learning
Colloquialism and expressions not taught in textbooks or in China
Building up self confidence in communicating in English and through culture

Why is it effective?

Our program has been proven to be very effective especially among the U.S. military. We currently teach over 70 languages to over 3,000 students in all areas of the World. It is effective because is forces the students to be submerged fully in the language and culture through conversation. Every class is customized to fit to their interests and learning styles.

FAQ

Who is eligible to participate?

MSVL Culture Immersion is designed to support language training for personnel in outside countries that are scheduled to move to the U.S. with an exchange visitor program or as a student in a U.S. university.

How big will my class be?

Your class will have no more than 6 students in attendance. We feel that it is necessary to have smaller class sizes to promote more conversation among the instructor and students allowing you to excel.

Will this take up a lot of my time?

Each class session is approximately 1-hour long and the class will run for 40 hours in total. The schedule will be based on student’s availability.

What are the requirements to take a class?

You will need to have your own personal computer with high speed internet. The following baseline Internet and computer specifications are recommended to participate.

Baseline Internet Access

1.5 Mbps downstream speed (3 Mbps ideal)
.25 Mbps upstream speed (.375 Mbps ideal)
Wired-in (Ethernet) connection

Baseline Computer

Windows: Vista or newer
Mac OS X: 10.8 or newer
2GB RAM
Use of webcam
Use of headset with boom mic highly recommended*

Will it be Chinese students only?

No, although a majority of our students are from China, this class is designed for scholars and students from any country.

What if I don’t understand my instructor?

We cater all the classes to the student’s individual learning styles and proficiency. If we feel a student is struggling we may alter the class materials or separate the class to better assist each student.

What are the minimum computer skills required?

None, as long as you can join the virtual classroom, which is all the tools you need to participate in class.

How do I enroll in class?

Once your contact information has been received by MSVL, your online account will be created and you will automatically be enrolled into the appropriate class.