spanish@mesoamerica.org

Spanish Language and latino Culture for Nurses and Health Workers

The Mesoamerica Institute is approved by the California BRN,

Provider Number 14986, for CE hours

Learn Spanish language and become familiar with Latino culture to better communicate with patients in health care settings!

The Program MESOAMERICA INSTITUTE offers a new approach to learning Spanish along with the opportunity to explore Mexican and Latin American culture. Learning Spanish as a foreign language happens in much the same way as learning your native language -by experiencing it. Because language is more effectively learned in a cultural context, language and culture are taught as an integrated whole. Our approach is highly effective because it provides an environment that allows you to overcome your hesitation of speaking Spanish, learn at your own pace and enjoy the process at the same time.

Course Components

Spanish language and Latino Culture for Nurses and Health Workers focuses in three components:

Grammar
Grammar and language structure forms are taught according to the different levels. Grammar is approached in a practical, contextual manner rather than being confined to repetitious drills. Knowing English grammar is not essential.

Vocabulary
Vocabulary and idiomatic expressions related to health are reviewed. Real life situations or role playing are used to place the language in the health care context. Direct translation is avoided. Correct pronunciation is stressed.

Culture
Classes highlight the peculiarities of Latin American culture as found in the home, workplace, school, and health care environments. Cultural components will provide alternative approaches and perspectives to patient care through increased understanding of Latino culture and its influences on health, illness, and health care access.

MESOAMERICA INSTITUTE
We have been teaching Spanish in the Bay Area since 1988, and have the most experienced native speakers as instructors. Our instructors are native-born speakers of Spanish who teach language in a natural way. The instructors are all trained to teach Spanish as a second language, using our New Approach to the Spanish Language™. Arturo Sosa is the founder, director, and lead trainer at the MESOAMERICA INSTITUTE. We have taught Spanish in Mexico and the United States at schools, universities, private and public institutions including; University of La Verne (Los Angeles), San Mateo County Department of Education, Children’s Hospital Oakland, Kaiser Permanente, Environmental Protection Agency, and Lonely Planet

Course Description
The course will offer nurses and health workers necessary knowledge, attitudes, and skills to be more linguistically and culturally sensitive and appropriate for Latino patients and their health care needs. One course consists of 10 contact hours in total. Classes meet twice a week for 2 consecutive weeks starting on August 2008. We offer three levels: beginner, intermediate and advanced. Levels are defined by a free placement test, available by an appointment at your convenience. Full deposit refund for non-attendance provided within 1 month. To find out more about costs, exact dates and schedules, please contact us.