What sets Orange Blossom Education apart from other language schools or continuing education programs?

Our initiative was started by language teachers who wanted to create better standards in the industry while using their teaching skills to help important causes. We make sure that our instructors earn fair wages, and any extra money we make (after covering our operating costs) will be donated. Our language learning programs also aim to promote linguistic equity and raise awareness of social issues affecting different language communities.

What is the course structure?

Our courses usually have two main parts: 1) a structured language learning section where you learn the basics of the language, and 2) a seminar section that looks at deeper topics. In the seminars, we discuss social issues, history, politics, literature, art, and linguistics—especially how language connects to society and its speakers.

What is the duration of the course?

Our language courses typically last 12 weeks, with classes scheduled for 2 to 3 hours each week. Workshops are usually shorter in both weekly duration and overall length. If a class is canceled, we will extend the course by the same amount of time, scheduling the makeup session on the same recurring date.

Will there be any homework?

Homework will be provided, but it is completely optional. Our instructors will offer feedback to students who choose to complete their homework. We understand that life can be challenging and busy, which means that there may not always be enough time. However, consistent practice of the language outside of the limited classroom hours will ensure steady progress.

Will I receive a grade at the end of the course?

No. We practice the principle of ungrading and embrace differential learning.

“Ungrading” is a practice that emphasizes detailed feedback related to course learning goals, instead of assigning a letter grade. It focuses on “grading for growth,” aiming to enhance students' knowledge and skills. Sometimes instructors may ask students to complete a self-assessment upon completion of a course.

“Differential learning” acknowledges each student's distinct background, experiences, culture, language, personality, interests, and attitudes towards learning. Instructors will modify and diversify their learning activities to accommodate the varying needs of students.

Do you arrange a language assessment?

If you have indicated prior learning experience with a language on your registration form, we will contact you to discuss which level would be suitable for you.

Do you accept students who are under 18 years old?

We currently accept only adult learners who are over 18 years old.

How many hours per week will I be studying?

In addition to 2 to 3 hours of classroom learning, we encourage students to spend additional time reviewing and previewing the content at their own pace, using their preferred studying methods. It's important for students to take ownership of their learning. If you need further assistance, please don't hesitate to contact us!

What is the format of the classes (e.g., group classes, one-on-one, online, in-person)?

All classes are conducted online. We currently offer courses in three languages: Arabic (Modern Standard Arabic and Palestinian dialect), Mandarin, and English. The number of enrolled students per course can range from 4 to 25, depending on the course content.

If you are interested in scheduling online one-on-one lessons, please contact us. We also hope to provide in-person group lessons in Tkaronto ("Toronto") in the future!

What is the balance between grammar, speaking, listening, writing, and reading?

All courses will cover productive skills (speaking, writing) and receptive skills (listening, reading). We are also designing more specialized courses, such as conversation practice and newspaper reading. Stay tuned!

What approach do you use to teach the language (e.g., communicative, immersion, task-based, content-based)?

Since students have different learning needs and preferences, we strive to diversify our teaching methods. You may encounter a variety of approaches used in a single class or just a few, depending on the learning objectives. We aim to provide as much comprehensible input as possible with communicative goals in mind, so we will only use English to explain certain concepts when it is necessary.

Do you offer financial accommodation?

We provide sliding scale options for all courses. Students can contribute as much as they wish and are able to. If you need further accommodation, please contact us.

What is your refund or withdrawal policy?

You will receive a full refund for any course fees you've already paid for courses that have not yet started, provided that it’s not a donation course where course fees are directly donated to Palestinian families, aid networks or other initiatives.

If you wish to withdraw from a course that has already begun, please contact us within 7 days from the start date of the first class. Please note that course fees are non-refundable after 7 days from the start of the first class. Refunds will be issued to your original method of payment. Kindly allow a minimum of two weeks for processing, though processing times may be longer during peak periods.

Please be aware that for courses conducted in collaboration with mutual aid initiatives, charities, or non-profit organizations, you'll be asked to donate your course fees directly to the beneficiaries (e.g., to Palestinian families with urgent needs in Gaza). In these cases, course fees are non-refundable.

In rare cases where a student can no longer attend a course due to personal matters, emergencies, or illness, or if a course is canceled due to unforeseen circumstances, students will be invited to join an alternative offering at a later date.

Is there an option to move between levels during the course if needed?

Please contact us if you find your current course too easy or too difficult. We will do our best to help accommodate you. Please submit your request before the [Y] day, starting from the first class.

What materials and resources are provided? Do I need to buy textbooks or materials, or are they included in the course fee?

​​​​​​​All learning materials will be provided by the instructor.

Are there supplementary resources or practice opportunities available (e.g., online practice, apps, language exchange, study group opportunities)? 

We're going to send invitations to students who have registered to join our Discord server. This server is a place where students and teachers can share study materials, ask questions, and organize study groups. Our goal is to build an active learning community where language learners feel supported and connected.

Can you issue a donation receipt for tax purposes?

Unfortunately, since we are a worker-cooperative and only registered charities can issue official donation receipts for tax purposes, we CANNOT issue charity donation receipts.

Can you issue a tax certificate for education credits?

We are currently addressing this issue and will provide an update soon.