So the school is bilingual. Here are some questions and answers relating to being in a bilingual school:
People from many nations form part of each DTS
Is it hard to get to the base when I only speak English in a Spanish speaking country?
Good question. The truth is that there are thousands of travelers who have managed to find their way around Argentina with nothing more than a phrase book and a lot of patience. You will find that there are many people in the bus stations and airports who are able to speak English and help you to find your way here to the YWAM base. And you always have our phone number should you feel that you need an extra hand.
Can you still do the school even if you don’t know one word of Spanish?
Yes, we have had people come to our schools who do not know any Spanish at all when they arrive. Of course, after living in a Spanish speaking country and with some of your classmates who can only speak Spanish being at your side throughout the school, you will certainly know more Spanish when you leave than when you arrive. Even with the language barrier, there has never been problems with people communicating with each other during the schools.
God knows every language – even if we don’t
What are the bilingual classes like?
In the DTS here we get teachers coming who are from all parts of the world, so some classes are translated from English to Spanish, while others are taught in Spanish and translated to English. The translation is done at the same time as the teaching, so during the class you will be listening to both languages – an ideal time to improve your Spanish at the same time as learning more about God.
Translation in the classes is fast and efficient
Does the translation affect the classes?
Throughout the teaching you will experience a short break between phrases during the translation. As you will be learning a lot of new material in the classes, the short pauses will give you time to digest and reflect (briefly) upon each thing said. Many find that the small delay with the translation is a welcomed benefit, but why no come and experience it for yourself?
Do I have to learn Spanish?
Although Spanish would help you to communicate better with those that only speak Spanish, we have enough staff who can speak both languages who will be able to help you in any situation that you need translation. Furthermore, on the outreach there will be somebody on your team who will be able to translate for you when you are preaching or in other activities.
So even though there is no need to learn Spanish during your time here, we are sure that you will want to learn more about the culture and people here in Argentina and in your school and there will be opportunities for you in this. Who knows, you may end up with a whole new vocabulary that you have learned from some Latins who end up being some of your best friends. It has happened before.
A DTS class comprising seven different nations
Now if you have any other questions, contact us and we will help you out in all that we can.