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Is online French tutoring worth it?

Is online French tutoring worth it?

Traditional in-class tutoring has long been the go-to recommendation for learning a second language. Is it worth it? Is it efficient? Do you have the time? Do you have the flexibility?

For many people, that answer is no. This is why online second language training and tutoring is emerging as an attractive alternative for those needing to grow their language skills.

In short: Yes, online language tutoring is absolutely worth it.

But why? A Second language is an investment into your career, and online tutoring offers a flexible, dynamic solution to efficiently increase or maintain a target proficiency.

Whether aiming to secure higher SLE results for career advancement, brushing up on skills to maintain required levels, or just beginning a language journey, tutoring is a proven way to get learners to where they need to be faster.

The Need for SLE Tutoring

Fluency job requirements create demand for language tutoring, which can deliver targeted results within a specified time frame.

While private organizations may impose their own language requirements, bilingual positions in the Canadian government require candidates to possess certain proficiency levels in French and English to be considered eligible.

SLE Profile Requirements

Required SLE levels are depicted in federal job descriptions as three-letter profiles, which indicate the prescribed proficiency levels in the three SLE tests:

  • Reading Comprehension
  • Written Expression
  • Oral Language Assessment

What is the Canadian Government’s Bilingual Test?

A job requiring a BBB profile would mean a candidate must achieve a Level B on all three tests. Requiring a CBC means the candidate must hold a Level C (the highest proficiency level) in reading, a Level B in writing, and a Level C in oral communication.

Learn everything you need to know about the Second Language Assessment tests with our complete guide: The Ultimate Guide to SLE Test Prep

Time-Targeted Goals

Timing is essential for public sector jobs with an imperative or non-imperative bilingual profile.

Candidates pursuing public service roles with an imperative appointment process must either already possess specified language levels or successfully obtain them during the hiring process. Those who’ve secured a role in a non-imperative appointment have two years to become compliant.

Structured and targeted SLE tutoring is vital to develop language skills to the appropriate level and within the mandated timeline.

Tutoring in SLE Preparation

SLE tests can be divided into text- and verbal-based examinations. Tutoring offers candidates specific advantages in both of these testing styles and provides practical insights on the test.

Text-Based Preparation
The text-based assessments (Reading Comprehension and Written Expression) require candidates to be able to read and comprehend typical workplace communications, such as emails, memos, studies, and reports. They also challenge the candidate’s knowledge of grammar and vocabulary.

Online tutoring can be particularly beneficial in this regard. A tutor offers real-time feedback on written assignments, helping learners to identify and recognize mistakes and providing them with personalized insights.

You can find LRDG’s guide to the SLE reading test here,

And the SLE written test guide here.

Verbal Preparation
The Oral Language Assessment evaluates a candidate’s speaking and listening skills, which require a whole different set of skills, such as pronunciation, intonation, and real-time comprehension.

Tutoring provides learners with personal interactions with an expert who can provide immediate feedback and coaching. Tutoring — whether in one-on-one or group settings — can allow learners to do speaking exercises, role-playing scenarios, and even mock interviews with their tutors.

Find our French Oral test walkthrough here.

Test Insights
SLE tests follow prescribed formats from the Public Service Commission, and results are issued based on a standard and detailed rubric. Having a tutor who is an expert in SLE preparation will ensure you are prepared on how best to approach the tests, what kind of questions you should expect, and the best strategies for answers.

Private Online SLE Tutoring

Availability, costs, and location commonly limit access to a professional language tutor. However, the emergence of online tutoring is removing these barriers and giving learners expanded opportunities to receive expert guidance and feedback.

LRDG Methodology

Over the past 20 years, LRDG has aimed to reimagine language learning in Canada and disrupt traditional models through technological and pedagogical innovation.

Seeking the most efficient learning experience, LRDG blends its online learning system with live one-on-one and group tutoring sessions. This approach provides learners with a highly personalized and flexible learning experience that empowers them to dependably reach their goals within their timelines and availability.

LRDG learners are assessed on their skills, placed in one of 16 modules based on their proficiency, and are guided and encouraged by tutors throughout their personalized path.

LRDG Tutors

LRDG tutors and pedagogical advisors have leveraged LRDG’s methodology to help its learners achieve an industry-leading 90% SLE test success rate.

LRDG’s mobile and accessible platform allows its 300 tutors to be available for sessions from 6 a.m. to 12 a.m. (EST) seven days a week.

Connect with LRDG

To learn more about LRDG and the benefits of training with expert tutors through an online training platform, contact one of our representatives.

Book a Call

Frequently Asks Questions

How much do French tutors charge per hour?

Tutoring costs depend on the skill and demand of the tutor, with the average rate likely to fall between $20-$50 per hour. Live tutoring session hours factor into LRDG’s monthly subscription.

Is it worth getting a French tutor?

Yes, a language tutor is worth getting as it provides personalized and structured learning with much higher success rates than language classes and online self-study. Some of the many things to consider include costs, availability, and the tutor’s capabilities.

Is online French tutoring worth it?

Yes, online tutoring can be worth trying as it provides a flexible, convenient, and effective way to improve your language skills. Online tutoring allows for personalized guidance based on your unique needs and goals, coupled with the convenience of scheduling sessions at your own pace and comfort. Moreover, online platforms often have various resources and tools that enhance the learning experience.

Can you learn French online?

Yes, learning French online is possible. Online self-study has a very high abandonment rate, however, as this format is not for everyone and is easy to get derailed. LRDG recommends its methodology of blending its learning platform with live weekly tutoring sessions.