Hi guys, don't you think that the rating system on this website is not really useful? Every teacher has only great reviews (usually given after the first 2 or 3 classes). Most people don't want to give less than 4 stars, as they know that the teacher will guess that the review was from them and they don't want to be "mean". As a result, the reviews don't seem to be very honest.
There are also only three adjectives to describe your experience once the class is completed (The teacher was: Punctual / Supportive / Prepared). When I read someone's profile I would like to know if the teacher: let's you speak freely vs. is too talkative; really brings some materials adapted to your needs vs. follows exercises from a book vs. comes totally unprepared; is mostly focused on grammar, often cancels classes, and so on.
Dunno, maybe it's just my impression...
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Yes, in my experience, you need 3 or 4 classes to see if the teacher really makes an effort and takes your needs into account. The trial lesson always sounds wonderful and great things are promised, but you need some time to verify the teacher's credibility.
Ideally, the teacher should also use these first meetings to identify your weaknesses and think how to deal with them in a structured manner.
My impression is that many teachers here have a rather spontaneous attitude to Italki, coming up with a vague idea of a topic 10 minutes before the class starts.
Has anyone used Italki for exam preparation? To get an official language certificate, e.g. the CEA, in any of the languages? And how successful was it?
