English Facts
English is sometimes described as the world's 'lingua franca': it is the dominant language in communications, science, business, aviation, entertainment, diplomacy, and is the native language of the internet
The popularity of English is mainly due for the influence of the British Empire and the cultural influence of the USA after World War II
Fast on its way to becoming the world's first universal language, English is spoken by over 380 million people worldwide as a first language, around 600 million as a second language, and has over 1 billion people considered 'learners'
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Understanding what the aspirations of people in different cultures are is important. In my previous job where I was looking after my company?s publications, we selected images to go with particular stories, especially in developing countries. We were quite keen to show what we would consider the more photogenic aspects of a particular lifestyle, culture or society.
But the society was much keener to show the more dynamic, international, forward-looking western images that it wanted to present to the outside world. For example, images of Malaysia. We wanted to show images of the countryside, the old systems of agriculture, people using oxen. But they wanted to show the downtown, suburban, western, highly developed, and highly sophisticated aspects of Malaysian life.
So, it was inevitable that there was going to be some differences between us. Firstly, these differences were to do with work issues but then this escalated into personal problems too.
I found it really hard to work in an environment where people were being two-faced. Thus, I had to think hard about changing my job because I simply was not happy. It did not take me long to decide that I was better off leaving my job and looking for something else.
Fortunately, I found a new job very quickly and I am now much happier there. My advice to anyone who is unhappy in their work is that you should think seriously about it and look for something that makes you happy. Just remember, you only live once!
Our native speaker qualified English language teachers can train you and your colleagues at your office or home at a time to suit you. Classes can be any day of the week (even weekends) in the morning, afternoon or evening. In certain circumstances, if your home or office is not suitable, you can take your classes at the trainer's office. Course books are provided.
Book now / EnquiryEnglish courses of this type are aimed towards those that need to learn English to aid them with their employment. For those just starting out, it is integral to learn basic greetings and business etiquette; and reading and writing can be adopted once the simple precepts are out of the way. Success has come from students who are involved in import/export, international negotiations and acquisitions, those seeking jobs in multinational companies, and those working with foreign colleagues, academia and bureaucracy. Just our most basic beginners course will have the student finishing the course with basic telephone/e-mail skills in English, as well as survival English should a short stay in the country be needed.
Book now / EnquiryThese courses in English are wider-ranging in their nature, and are driven towards students who have a variety of differing needs. All beginner students will expect to study enough survival English to get them through a short visit to the country, those staying on with the course can progress differently, depending on their individual requests and requirements. Whether you are buying property in a foreign country, married to a foreign national, planning a round-the-world trip, interested in English history and culture, or if you simply want to attain a particular level of English, this is the choice for you.
Book now / EnquiryThose wishing to learn English in groups of 2 or more together (Two-to-One English Courses or Small Group In-Company English Courses) can sign up for our group classes. All students must be at nearly the same level of English proficiency, must have the same needs from the language, and must be able to study at the same time and place as the others. Bookings must be made for all students simultaneously. Listen & Learn do not propose group sizes or more than 6-8 people, but In-Company Taster English Courses can occur with up to 12 people.
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Dublin
The largest city in Ireland, Dublin has been Ireland's capital since medieval times, and has a population of over 500,000 people. It is the third most-visited capital city in Europe (after London and Paris), with over 4 million visitors per year. It has a long tradition of emigration and is home to many immigrants from countries such as China, Poland, Nigeria, Lithuania and Romania, as well as many other EU member states. Dublin also plays host to the headquarters of almost all of Ireland's sporting organisations, educational institutions; and is also one of the most youthful cities in the world - an estimated 50% of the population being below 25 years old.
English Testimonials
"Our native speaker qualified English language teachers can train you and your colleagues at your office or home at a time to suit you. Classes can be any day of the week (even weekends) in the morning."