You probably have some questions! Take a look below for some of the most common questions that people have asked about taking classes at the Chicago English Corner.
Q1: What technology do you use for class?
As of 2026, our classes use
Google Meets for the video calls (however, I am happy to use a different application -- such as Zoom, Teams, etc... if the student prefers those) and
Miro for class material.
The AV technology I use in the office is
M4 Mac Mini
Logitech Blue Yeti microphone
Logitech BRIO 4K web camera
Q2: Do students have to switch on / active their camera for classes?
Yes. Languages are lived, human experiences. The quality of the learning experience drops dramatically if only we cannot see each other. Of course, I do not apply this policy to students with visual impairments.
Q3: Can the classes be recorded?
Yes. A student can request that I record their class. Google usually makes the recording available within 24 hours of the class. I will share the link with the student. However, the classes are private for both the student and for me. Please ask first if you'd like to share any part of a class recording with others / post to social media.
Q4: Do students need to have a Google account to take classes?
No. Students can access the Google Meets video call and the Miro board material with any email address.
Q5: Do you use Artificial Intelligence?
No. All class material comes from published books, music, podcasts, and videos. I also create original content like stories and audio based on students' needs.
Q4: Are classes at Chicago English Corner private?
Yes. Absolutely. My office is closed and private. Nobody else can hear or see what is happening during our classes. Well... nobody human. My dogs may walk into the office but they definitely cannot understand what is going on. :)
Q4: Can businesses sign up for classes?
Yes! I have contracted with businesses around the world to teach group classes for their employees needing extra support with their communication skills. The business class rate depends on the number of participants and the total hours of the course. Businesses interested in providing tailored, industry-specific English classes for their employees can reach out to me through the Contact Form.
Q5: Do you offer group classes?
Yes! It can be convenient to take English classes with a family member, friend, or coworker. The rate for group classes is based on the number of people enrolled and the number of hours of the course. Reach out to me through the Contact Form if you're interested in taking English classes with a buddy. :)
Q6: What are the benefits of learning English for business?
Proficiency in English can open doors in various industries, particularly in business and engineering sectors where the Anglophone nations plays a significant role. Additionally, the professional labor markets desperately want skilled employees who speak two languages. There are not any downsides to improving your English!
Q7: Can you help me improve my accent?
This question is complex. Students who have experienced the awkward or embarrassing situation of not being understood want to blame their accent. But, every English speaker has an accent. Native speakers from Chicago sound very different from folks in Boston, Savannah, and Fargo (not to mention Edinburgh, Cape Town, or Adelaide). In many such annoying situations, the problem may be the expectations of the listener -- not your accent. Having said that, I will assess your speech patterns and together we will strengthen all aspects of your language including diction, tone, and vocabulary.
Q8: What times do you offer classes?
Classes are open every day except Friday, between 9a and 4p Central Standard Time
Reach out to Donald with any other comments, concerns, or questions you have about moving forward with the Chicago English Corner.