The Instituto de Comunicación y Cultura, established in 1986, is one of the oldest and most experienced language schools in Oaxaca. Located close to the Zócalo (the colonial main square), the Institute is situated in a lovely restored XVI century building. Beginning, intermediate and advanced classes are taught by instructors who hold university degrees, and years of teaching Spanish to foreign students. The level of instruction is of such a high caliber that American universities bring groups of students to the Instituto for college credit.

The Institute's teachers have full credentials to teach Spanish as a second language. All courses are taught by experienced Mexican instructors. The Institute can claim several firsts: the Executive Director was the first in Oaxaca to specialize in the field of teaching Spanish as a second language and the Institute was the first in Oaxaca to use the modern and highly effective communicative approach.

The I.C.C. has three basic aims: (1) to provide motivating materials that teach students to function in real-life situations in which Spanish is spoken,(2) to teach only authentic Spanish, and (3) to give students a feeling of success and achievement in language learning.

The techniques of the I.C.C. are based on the communicative approach to language teaching. The course teaches basic linguistic functions such as asking for information, talking about feelings, making suggestions, and apologizing. Students learn language that can be put to immediate use in both speaking and writing. They also learn appropriate language for different situations, such as the formal speech used with strangers and informal speech used with friends. Exercises practice the basic functions and structures. They encourage students to give personal information and express their own ideas and feelings.

Grammar is carefully graded throughout the courses. However more difficult structures may be introduced formulaically when they are needed to perform a given function appropriately.

Classes are held three hours per day, Monday through Friday. Emphasis is placed on communication, hence our name, but grammar and phonology are an integral part of the courses. Classes vary in size from as few as three students to a maximum of five students. Private classes are available on request. Length of private classes and fees will be determined based on individual requirements.

Students will also have the opportunity to interact and practice Spanish with Oaxacan university students or graduates of various professions who wish to improve their English.

Unlike many other language course schedules in Mexico and Central America, classes at the Instituto are available 9 a.m. to 12, 12 to 3 p.m. and 4 p.m. to 7, providing ample free time in the mornings and evenings for students to participate in the many cultural activities available in Oaxaca. In addition to excellent museums, Oaxaca offers plays, dance performances (from folk to modern dance), art exhibitions, lectures, films from all parts of the world, folk and tropical music, jazz and classical concerts.