An online synchronous classes are conducted in real-time, where students and instructors interact live through a virtual platform at scheduled times. This format allows for immediate feedback, active participation, and direct communication, closely mimicking a traditional classroom environment but delivered online. Classes are conducted via Zoom (at the specific published Standard Mountain Time).

We have also expanded our offerings to include in-person classes and language learning summer camps for children aged 6-10.

FLIB offers non-credit courses designed for personal enrichment, language learning, and cultural exploration. As these classes are non-credit, you will not receive academic credit upon successful completion. However, these courses provide valuable knowledge and skills, and you may receive a certificate of participation or completion, depending on the course.

In your course at the French Language Institute Online (FLIO), classes are conducted using popular online platforms designed for interactive learning. Commonly used platforms include:

1. Zoom: For live, real-time classes where you can interact with your instructor and classmates through video, audio, and chat. Zoom allows for screen sharing, breakout rooms, and other features that facilitate an engaging learning experience. Class-specific zoom information is provided to students 6 days before classes along with other important class details.

2. Canvas: For course management: accessing course materials, assignments, and resources. Canvas serves as the course hub where you can find lecture notes, readings, and other essential content. It’s also where you’ll submit assignments and participate in discussion forums.

Classes are conducted in a virtual classroom setting, with scheduled live sessions on Zoom. During these sessions, you’ll participate in discussions, activities, and presentations, just as you would in a physical classroom. Course materials and announcements and other resources will be available on Canvas, allowing you to review content at your own pace and stay connected with the course outside of the live sessions.

To join your classes at the French Language Institute Online (FLIO), you may need to download some software and adjust a few settings on your device. The software used in our classes is:

1. Zoom: You’ll need to download the Zoom application to participate in live classes. It’s available for free on both computers and mobile devices. The download is straightforward, and you’ll receive instructions on how to join the Zoom meetings for your classes.

2. Canvas: You can access Canvas directly through your web browser, so there’s no need to download any additional software for this platform. However, if you prefer, you can download the Canvas app for easier access on mobile devices.

As far as device settings, here are a few suggestions:

1. Audio and Video: Ensure your device’s microphone and camera are functioning properly, as many classes involve live participation. You may need to grant Zoom access to your microphone and camera.

2. Internet Connection: A stable internet connection is essential for uninterrupted participation. If possible, use a wired connection or position yourself close to your Wi-Fi router.

3. Browser Settings: For Canvas, ensure your browser is up to date and that pop-ups are enabled, as some features may require this.

4. Software Updates: Regularly check for updates to Zoom, your browser, and your device’s operating system to ensure everything runs smoothly.

If any specific technical requirements are needed for your course, FLIO will provide detailed instructions to help you set up your device accordingly.

• Logging in to the Class:

To log in to your class at the French Language Institute Online (FLIO), follow these steps:

1. Zoom: Prior to the class, you’ll receive a Zoom meeting link via email or through the course’s Canvas page. Click the link at the scheduled class time, and Zoom will prompt you to log in or join the meeting. If you’re new to Zoom, you may need to create a free account.

2. Canvas: Log in to Canvas using the credentials provided to you when you enrolled in the course. From your Canvas dashboard, you can access the course page, which will include links to the Zoom sessions, course materials, and announcements.

• Webcam and Microphone:

Yes, you will need a webcam and microphone to participate fully in the class. The webcam allows you to interact face-to-face with your instructor and classmates, creating a more engaging experience. The microphone is essential for participating in discussions, asking questions, and contributing to class activities. Most laptops and tablets come with built-in webcams and microphones, but you can also use external devices if you prefer.

• What Happens if You Lose Your Internet Connection:

If you lose your internet connection during the class, try these steps:

1. Rejoin the Session: As soon as your connection is restored, rejoin the Zoom session using the original meeting link.

2. Check Canvas: If you miss part of the class, check the Canvas page for any recordings, notes, or materials that were covered. Instructors often post recordings or summaries of the class.

3. Contact the Instructor: If the issue persists, reach out to your instructor via email or Canvas messaging to inform them of the situation. They can provide guidance on catching up with any missed content.

FLIO instructors are understanding of technical difficulties and will work with you to ensure you stay on track.

Whether you need to purchase a textbook or other materials for your course at the French Language Institute Online (FLIO) will depend on the specific class you’re taking. Here’s what you can generally expect:

• Textbooks:

- Required Textbooks: Some courses may require you to purchase a specific textbook. If this is the case, the textbook information, including title, author, and edition, will be provided in the course syllabus or in the course description prior to enrollment.

- Optional Textbooks: In some cases, textbooks might be recommended but not required. These can be helpful for additional reading and practice.

• Other Materials:

- Digital Resources: Many courses at FLIO rely on digital resources, which are typically provided through Canvas. These might include PDFs, articles, videos, and other online resources, which you can access at no extra cost.

- Workbooks/Activity Books: Some language courses may use workbooks or activity books that you might need to purchase. Again, this will be specified in the course details.

- Supplementary Materials: Depending on the course, you might be encouraged to use additional materials like language apps, online dictionaries, or other resources to enhance your learning experience.

• How to Find Out:

- Course Syllabus: Check the course syllabus or course description, where any required or recommended materials will be listed.

- Instructor Communication: Your instructor may also provide this information during the first class or through a pre-class email.

FLIO aims to make courses as accessible as possible, so many of the materials you’ll need are often provided digitally.

• Accessing and Downloading Learning Materials:

- Canvas: All course materials, including lecture notes, readings, assignments, and supplementary resources, are typically available on the course’s Canvas page. You can access these materials by logging into Canvas with your credentials and navigating to the specific course.

- Downloading: Most files, such as PDFs, Word documents, and presentations, can be downloaded directly from Canvas to your device for offline use. Simply click on the file link, and you’ll usually see a download option.

• Access After End of Class:

- Course Access: Typically, you can continue to access the course materials on Canvas for a few days after the course officially ends. This allows you to review content, complete any unfinished work, and download materials that had been posted to your course-specific Canvas page.

- Duration: The exact duration of access post-course can vary, so it’s a good idea to check with your instructor or consult the course policies.

- Downloading for Future Use: If you wish to keep certain materials permanently, it’s advisable to download them before your access expires.

*Important Note: Please remember that all course materials are the intellectual property of FLIO. While you’re welcome to download and use these materials for personal study, redistribution or sharing of these materials outside the course is not permitted. We appreciate your understanding and respect for these guidelines.

While you can use a phone for class participation, using a computer will likely give you a more complete and comfortable learning experience. If possible, have a computer available for the best interaction with course materials and activities.

Please note that, due to privacy reasons, recordings of the classes will not be available if you miss a session. To stay on track, make sure to review any materials provided on Canvas and reach out to your instructor for any additional guidance or missed content. We encourage you to attend all live sessions to benefit fully from the interactive aspects of the course.

Yes, you can still join the class if you're late. However, we encourage you to be on time to ensure you don’t miss any important content or disrupt the flow of the session. If you know you'll be late, try to join as soon as possible to minimize any disruption. If you have any concerns about missing content, you can reach out to the instructor after class for guidance.

Please be aware that we do not have a dedicated tech team available to assist with technical issues during class. If you encounter problems, first try rebooting your computer and logging back into Zoom to troubleshoot. If the issue persists, you can reach out to Zoom's tech support team for further assistance. For additional help, you may also contact your instructor. They can provide guidance and help you stay on track with the course.

Yes, it’s a great idea to test your setup before the first class to ensure everything works smoothly. Here’s how you can do that:

1. Zoom Test: Zoom offers a test meeting feature where you can check your audio, video, and connection. You can join a test meeting by visiting the Zoom Test Meeting page [here](https://zoom.us/test).

2. Canvas Access: Log in to Canvas to ensure you can access course materials and navigate the platform. Check that you can view and download any necessary files.

3. Device Check: Verify that your computer, webcam, and microphone are functioning properly. Test them with other applications if needed.

4. Internet Connection: Make sure your internet connection is stable. You might run a speed test to check that your connection is sufficient for online classes.

5. Software Updates: Ensure that Zoom and your web browser are up to date with the latest versions to avoid any compatibility issues.

By testing these components ahead of time, you can address any technical issues before the class begins, making for a smoother learning experience.

If you can’t hear or see the instructor during the class, try these steps:

1. Check Audio and Video Settings:

- Audio: Make sure your device’s volume is turned up and not muted. Check that your microphone and speakers are selected correctly in Zoom’s audio settings.

- Video: Verify that your webcam is turned on and selected correctly in Zoom’s video settings.

2. Reboot and Rejoin:

- Try rebooting your computer and then rejoining the Zoom session. Sometimes, a fresh start can resolve connectivity or software issues.

3. Check Internet Connection:

- Ensure your internet connection is stable. If possible, use a wired connection or move closer to your Wi-Fi router to improve connectivity.

4. Zoom Troubleshooting:

- Use Zoom’s built-in troubleshooting tools to diagnose and fix common issues. You can access these from the Zoom help center or settings menu.

5. Contact the Instructor:

- If the problem persists, send a message to your instructor through Zoom chat or email to inform them of the issue. They may be able to offer guidance or assist with resolving the problem.

6. Contact Zoom Tech Support:

- If none of the above steps resolve the issue, contact Zoom’s tech support team for further assistance.

Taking these steps should help you address any issues with audio or video and ensure you can participate effectively in the class.

All classes are scheduled according to the time specified for each class, using standard Mountain Time (MDT).

For example, if a class is set for 10:00 AM MDT, it will be 9:00 AM Pacific Time (PDT) or 11:00 AM Central Time (CDT) in the U.S.

For international participants, such as those in the Netherlands for instance, the class will be at 5:00 PM Central European Time (CET). Please be sure to calculate the time difference according to your location to join your class at the correct time.

At FLIO, we are committed to offering small-size group classes, with each class typically consisting of 6 to 12 students. This allows for personalized attention and a more interactive and engaging learning experience, ensuring that every student has ample opportunities to participate and benefit from tailored instruction.

Anyone with a passion for learning French and a sense of curiosity to discover the rich heritage of French and Francophone cultures is enthusiastically welcomed to join us! Our in-person courses in Boulder, CO offer classes for students of diverse age groups (4-6, 7-11, 12-17, and 18 + years of age) to ensure a suitable learning environment where participants can engage fully in discussions and collaborate effectively with peers within their own age group.

If you miss a class, please note that make-up sessions are not offered, and attendance in a different session of the same class is not always possible due to our class size limits. For any specific questions, please contact your instructor.

There is no strict limit on how many classes you can miss, but it’s important to consider that excessive absences may impact your ability to keep up with the course material. Although our classes are non-credit and do not have grades or exams, maintaining a certain level of proficiency is crucial for progression to higher-level classes. Missing too many classes can affect your understanding and participation, potentially making it challenging to join more advanced courses.

Here’s how to handle class absences and catch up on missed material:

1.Informing the Instructor: While it’s not always required, it’s a good practice to inform your instructor if you’re going to miss a class. This helps them be aware of your absence and can assist in providing you with any necessary information or support.

2. Contact the Instructor: Reach out to your instructor for any specific guidance on what was covered during your absence.

3. Classmates: You can also ask classmates for notes or a summary of the class. They may be able to provide insight into important discussions or activities.

4. Follow-Up: If there are any assignments or activities you missed, make sure to complete them as soon as possible to stay on track with the course.

Staying proactive in catching up on missed content will help you keep pace with the course and ensure you’re prepared for future sessions.

Missing a class may impact your progress in the course, but since our classes are non-credit, there is no formal certification that you receive. However, consistent attendance is important for several reasons:

1. Course Progress: Regular attendance ensures you stay on track with the material and can fully participate in discussions and activities. Missing classes can lead to gaps in understanding and make it challenging to keep up with the course content.

2. Next Level Courses: While there are no formal grades or certifications, your progress and proficiency are important for moving on to higher-level classes. Significant absences might affect your readiness for more advanced courses, as you need to demonstrate a certain level of proficiency to ensure you can participate effectively.

3. Learning Experience: Frequent absences may affect your overall learning experience and engagement. Regular participation helps you grasp concepts more effectively and stay motivated.

If you’re concerned about how missing classes might impact your learning or progression, consider discussing it with your instructor. They can offer guidance on how to manage missed content and maintain your course progress.

There are no scheduled office hours for students. However, if you need additional help, you can purchase a private session with an instructor based on their availability.

Yes, there is a class code of conduct that outlines expectations for behavior and participation, which is:

1. Respectful Communication: Engage respectfully with instructors and classmates. This includes listening actively, contributing constructively to discussions, and refraining from disruptive or offensive behavior or language.

2. Academic Integrity: Maintain honesty in all your work. This includes avoiding plagiarism, cheating, and misrepresentation of your own work.

3. Attendance and Punctuality: Attend classes regularly and be punctual. If you need to miss a class, inform your instructor in advance if possible.

4. Participation: Actively participate in class activities and discussions. Your engagement is crucial for a collaborative learning environment.

5. Technology Use: Use technology responsibly. Ensure your device is set to minimize disruptions, such as muting notifications during class. Follow any specific instructions regarding the use of digital tools and platforms.

6. Privacy and Confidentiality: Respect the privacy of other participants. Do not share recorded class sessions and respect the confidentiality of shared personal or sensitive information.

7. Feedback and Communication: Provide constructive feedback and communicate any issues or concerns with your instructor. This helps ensure that any problems can be addressed promptly.

• How to Find the Code of Conduct:

- Course Syllabus: The course syllabus or introduction materials often include the code of conduct or behavior expectations.

- Instructor Guidance: Your instructor will provide specific guidelines and expectations at the start of the course and may address any questions you have.

Familiarizing yourself with these guidelines helps create a positive and productive learning environment for everyone involved.

If the course you are interested in is already full, you can join the waitlist by sending an email to french.institute.online@gmail.com. While classes are generally filled to capacity, circumstances can change, and a spot may become available. Additionally, in some cases, we might be able to offer an additional section of the class. If you’ve provided your contact information, you’ll be notified of any such opportunities. We recommend joining the waitlist as soon as possible to increase your chances of securing a spot.

Refunds or partial refunds are not offered for missed classes. To stay up-to-date, make sure to contact your instructor if you need additional support or have questions about the missed content.

We do not issue refunds.

Per Class:

• A $15 class transfer fee applies.

• If a cancellation is made up to 14 days prior to the class start date, 15% of the class tuition will be retained as a cancellation fee, and the remainder will be issued as a credit on file for future classes, valid for one year from the issue date.

• No credit or transfers are available within 14 days of the class start date.

Credit will not be issued for absences resulting from, but not limited to, personal illness or injury, family vacations, internet or technology issues, or any other personal circumstance. This policy is necessary because our staffing and program costs remain fixed whether or not a student attends a scheduled session.

We do not issue refunds.

Per Class:

• A $15 class transfer fee applies.

• If a cancellation is made up to 14 days prior to the class start date, 15% of the class tuition will be retained as a cancellation fee, and the remainder will be issued as a credit on file for future classes, valid for one year from the issue date.

• No credit or transfers are available within 14 days of the class start date.

Credit will not be issued for absences resulting from, but not limited to, personal illness or injury, family vacations, internet or technology issues, or any other personal circumstance. This policy is necessary because our staffing and program costs remain fixed whether or not a student attends a scheduled session.

No, you cannot share your course enrollment with another person. The same individual must attend the course from beginning to end. However, if you are unable to attend the course or change your mind before the beginning of class, you can transfer your enrollment to a family member or friend who is 18 years of age or older.

To do so, you must arrange the transfer at least 3 days before the course start date. For example, if your course begins on September 23, the transfer request must be completed by September 20. Be sure to contact FLIB with your transfer request and the necessary details before the deadline to ensure the change is processed smoothly (french.institute.online@gmail.com)

Please note that a $50 administration fee applies to all transfers.

No, pausing your enrollment and resuming in a future session is not permitted to ensure effective planning, instructor engagement, class size coherence, and a smooth learning experience for all students. Consistent attendance and timely participation help maintain the integrity and effectiveness of the course for everyone involved.

FLIB reserves the right to use a substitute teacher or cancel a session if the scheduled instructor cannot attend due to health issues or emergencies. In the event of a cancellation, a make-up session will be arranged. The instructor will contact all students to determine a suitable day and time for the make-up class. As we try to accommodate all students in terms of their availability, that is not always possible. The date and time that suits the majority of students will be the agreed upon date and time for the make-up class.

*Also, please note that no full or partial refunds will be provided if you are unable to attend the make-up session.