I’d like to request that those of you who fancy words, spelling and grammar go here and fill out a survey that belongs to a research project I’m doing on how people currently use language. This particularly survey focuses mostly on which spelling of words you prefer. Don’t worry; it’s not a test. I won’t judge you (much).
Merci. 
I spent much of my long weekend redoing Coursetree’s website. Although I loved the design Ian did for the first version, the graphics just didn’t seem the most effective for the content of the page. I felt that a more serious design (and readable) was warranted for my potential customers. As a result, I went for a newspaper or blog-style approach. Please take a look at version two here.
Additionally, I’ve wanted to participate in the ESL blogging world like so many others I follow on Twitter. Plus, there is a lot of detailed information, like the About Us section of the website, that I felt was too much text for the homesite. So, Coursetree Blog came to be. Please check it out for ESL-related materials.
I’m happy to announce that the idea has now turned into a venture! A couple weeks ago, I mentioned Coursetree in a few posts in order to show the process of starting up a business. Sure, it’s a side business at the moment, but who knows where it will lead. A few developments have occurred since last I talked about this:
A) The website is now live!
Thank to my amazing graphic designer partner, Coursetree has a beautiful and functional website. I took the great designs and worked them into HTML magic. Believe me, that process brings to mind only two words: tedious and fulfilling. Take a quick look at some screenshots!
Click the screenshots to go to those specific pages or here to take a look at the entire website!
B) There have been meetings!
So far, I’ve met with EF International Toronto, Seneca College, Language Studies Canada, International House Toronto and Cornerstone Academic College. Each presented valuable experience and insight into their specific contexts. They led me to understand better which services are most desired (workshops, lesson plans and handouts, teacher observation and evaluation) and which often are usually undertaken by their existing staff (curriculum development). Next up, time to do some shameless self-promotion.
C) Workshops interest is very good.
One of the services I enjoy the most is facilitating workshops for teachers and thankfully, there has been interest! I had a great time developing and delivery workshops at TESL conferences (North York/York Region, Toronto and Ontario), English Central and individual schools (Cornerstone, International House). Next up, Quest Language Studies on April 5! Thank you to a colleague, Ken Lackman, for that one.
