Language and Learning
It certainly can be difficult when students are learning English as a new language. However, I agree with the the teaching in this course; picking up a few key words of the other language (in my case mostly spanish) and using them occasionally to establish report and also to help with comprehension when English words are difficult is very, very helpful.
Carla,
and it shows that you are willing to put yourself out there & can encourage them not to be embarrassed to try a new language or skill.
Ryan Meers, Ph.D.
Yes, learning a little of Spanish as you say won't hurt at all. As a matter of fact it could help to bridge a gap for the student and develop a relationship that is conductive to motivating that student already having difficulties to continue.
Being a Medical/Dental institution, it is almost impossible for someone learning English and trying to learn the vocabulary of the discipline.
Usually those students do not stay, which is sad.
