Course to open the conversation
Delivery Courier Ernest Jones is taking advantage of a golden opportunity. He is learning a second language.
“I’ve always wanted to take a Spanish class,” Jones said. “The price is great, and it’s on Saturdays, which is very convenient.”
Jones, 42, is a member of Mt. Triumph Baptist Church, where he heard about the great opportunity to learn conversational Spanish.
Opportunities Industrialization Center of Oklahoma County Inc. is offering a new class in its lineup of adult programs. In partnership with the Metro Technology Centers and Mt. Triumph Baptist Church, the “Conversational Spanish” course is a 10-week Spanish language course designed for adults 16 and older who want to learn Spanish.
The course is geared to those who want to learn to speak Spanish and want an easier way to learn the language.
It introduces everyday language and includes activities to practice all four language skills: Reading, comprehension, writing, listening comprehension and speaking.
Jones believes the class is important because they could help open dialogue between different cultures, which ultimately bridges the communication gap with Hispanic communities.
“It’s important to take because it opens your communication, comprehension, dialogue and understanding of others’ culture and language,” Jones said.
The course is affordable, only costing $25, which includes the books and materials needed for the course.
Jones said taking the course will help him build friendships and allow him to form a better understanding of Spanish, grammar and comprehension.
“I want to expand my knowledge and understanding of the culture,” Jones said. “I want to be able to conversate with them, be able to handle business and be able to understand.”
Jones isn’t alone in believing this course will enhance people’s lives and the way they communicate.
“Learning a second language, other than English, has so many benefits for every resident,” said DesJean Jones, executive director ofOpportunities Industrialization Center of Oklahoma County Inc. “As jobs become more competitive, being bilingual is a highly sought-after skill that means greater opportunity and higher wages.
“This partnership with Metro Tech and Mt. Triumph is designed for the community to increase its access and marketability,” he added.
The course will be from 2 to 3:30 p.m. every Saturday through Sept. 15.
No new students will be added after the first couple of sessions, DesJean Jones said. Assignments will be designed to teach the language in a way that makes it practical and easy to learn, he added.
For more information, call 235-2651 or go to https:// oicokc.org.