Today, we discuss why this might be a mistake!
Language exchanges are a big topic in language learning.
They’re popular because they’re both fun and free. But they do have some downfalls and sometimes a real teacher is better.
Here are three aspects of language exchange that could cause you trouble:
Training: The average native speaker of English may be able to speak the language, but they may not be able to clearly explain the difference between Past Perfect tense and Simple Present.
Time: A short-term arrangement may be good for conversation exercise, but it is not ideal for something like a grammar review.
Intention: What is the intention of the native speaker? Are they just doing it for fun? Their intention may not be to give you the serious, scheduled help that you really want and need.
This isn’t to say that language exchange is bad, or that you can’t learn from it! But you do need to understand that it is no substitute for what a qualified teacher and a structured course can provide.
Have you ever done a language exchange?
What was your experience?
Share it with us in the comments section below!
