When choosing a language course, people often focus on the schedule, the price, or the teacher’s experience. But there is another factor that strongly shapes your progress: class size. The number of students learning together can make the difference between slow improvement and real breakthroughs in fluency.
At German Academy Zurich, we’ve seen firsthand how private lessons help learners succeed faster. Let’s take a closer look at why class size matters so much and how to make the most of your German language learning journey.
Why Large Classes Can Hold You Back
Large group settings have clear downsides, such as students competing for the teacher’s attention, which often results in less individualized support. That often means:
- Less speaking time: You may spend more time listening than actively practicing.
- Fewer questions answered: Teachers must move on quickly, even if not everyone fully understands.
- Generalized lessons: With many different needs and levels in one room, it’s harder to adapt the material.
Large classes can still be fun and motivating, but they rarely provide the personal attention language learners need, especially at the beginning stages.
Why Private Lessons Can Supercharge Your Progress
At German Academy Zurich, we believe that the best learning happens in a combination of self-paced online instruction and one-on-one attention from your private teacher. Here’s why:
- 100% focus on your needs—from pronunciation to exam prep.
- Flexibility to concentrate on topics that matter most to you.
- Individual pace, so you don’t feel rushed or held back.
Why the Combination of Online Learning and Private Lessons Works Best
At German Academy Zurich, we believe that the best learning happens in a combination of self-paced online instruction and one-on-one attention from your private teacher. This blended approach gives you the flexibility of modern digital learning while ensuring you never learn alone. Here’s why it’s so effective:
- Learn anytime, anywhere – With our digital platform, you can practice grammar, vocabulary, and listening skills whenever it fits your schedule. Your progress doesn’t stop when the lesson ends.
- Private teacher for guidance – Self-study is powerful, but it works best with a teacher who answers questions, corrects mistakes, and helps you apply what you’ve learned in real conversations.
- Personalized focus – Online exercises provide structure, while your teacher tailors lessons to your exact needs: pronunciation, exam preparation, or everyday speaking practice.
- Faster progress – You don’t waste time waiting for others to catch up or racing to keep pace. You learn at your own speed, with a teacher who adapts to you.
- Confidence through practice – Online study gives you the foundation, and your private teacher turns that knowledge into fluent, confident communication.
This balance between independence and personal support means you’ll learn more efficiently, stay motivated, and see real results in your day-to-day life.
Conclusion
Class size is more than just a detail, it’s a key factor in how quickly and effectively you learn a new language. Large classes may offer energy and variety, but they often limit speaking time, slow down personal progress, and leave important questions unanswered.
At German Academy Zurich, we focus entirely on one-on-one learning supported by a modern digital platform. This unique combination gives you the freedom to study independently while always having a private teacher to guide, correct, and encourage you. The result? Faster progress, greater confidence, and real-world fluency that you can use in everyday life, work, or exams.
