facebook
from20.14EUR/ h

IELTS Preparation Courses - Get ready to take the IELTS test (Academic and General Training)

My IELTS preparation courses are designed to be taught over many lessons. The goal is to prepare you for taking the IELTS exams.

Speaking, Reading, Writing, Listening - All skills are covered.

We will do practice activities to prepare you for every type of question that you could get in the exam.
These courses are based on textbooks and authentic materials such as articles, blogs, podcasts and videos.

I try to make the lessons interesting and engaging. My teaching style is friendly and conversational. We will go at your pace.

In the first lesson, we will do some activities to test your level and then I can provide a suitable course for you.

If you have any questions, please send me a message.

Extra information

Lessons are taught on Zoom, Skype, G Hangouts or any other suitable platform.

Location

Online via webcam

General info

suitcase iconSkills:
English as a second language (esl), English for adults, School
Age:
Teenagers (13-17 years old)
Adults (18-64 years old)
Seniors (65+ years old)
Student level:
Beginner
Intermediate
Advanced
Duration:
60 minutes
90 minutes
120 minutes
The class is taught in:English

About Me

My name is Joshua. I am from England, UK. I currently live in Vietnam, where I have been for the last three and a half years.

I mostly teach English online. I also teach at a public primary school and a language centre in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam.

My lessons are taught on Zoom, Skype, G Hangouts or any other suitable platform.

I can teach all levels of English from six years old to adults. I teach IELTS Preparation, General English and Conversation Classes.

My courses are as follows:
IELTS Preparation - Pre-Intermediate, Intermediate and Upper-Intermediate
English for Adults - 7 Levels
English for Teenagers (13-17 years of age) - 7 Levels
English for Children (6-12 years of age) - 7 levels

English Conversation Classes - You can choose a topic for us to discuss.

If you have any questions, please send me a message, and I will get back to you as quickly as possible.

Education

BSc (Hons) Business Studies & Human Resource Management at Canterbury Christ Church University, UK
Chartered Management Institute (CMI) Diploma in Leadership and Management

Experience / Qualifications

Over 4 years online teaching experience
Over 3.5 years teaching in Vietnam
Teach English as a Foreign Language (TEFL) Certificate
English for Adults - 7 levels This general English course covers speaking, listening, reading, writing, vocabulary, and grammar. We use textbooks and authentic materials such as articles, blogs, podcasts and videos to make the lessons interesting and engaging for you. My teaching style is relaxed and conversational. I am happy to go at your pace and will provide you with as much support as you need. The course can be adapted and customised to suit you and your goals. If you are interested, please send me a message.
English for Children - 7 levels This course is for children between the ages of six and 12 years old. The lessons are fun and engaging. We look at pictures, videos, posters and more. We play lots of games for students to be able to practice the language being taught. If you have any questions, please send me a message.
English Conversation Class You can choose the topic for us to speak about. I am happy to speak about anything. I will correct any speaking mistakes and demonstrate how to say any difficult vocabulary. Please let me know what you want to discuss before the lesson and then I can prepare some images, videos or other prompts for us. If you have any questions, please send me a message.
English for Teenagers - 7 levels This is a general English course that covers speaking, listening, reading, writing, vocabulary and grammar. We use textbooks and authentic materials such as articles, blogs, podcasts and videos to make the lessons interesting and engaging for you. My teaching style is relaxed and conversational. I am happy to go at your pace and will provide you with as much support as you need. The course can be adapted and customised to suit you and your goals. If you are interested, please send me a message.

Ask a question

Send a message explaining your needs and Joshua will reply soon:
The more detail, the better.
Ex. "Hi, when are you available to meet for a lesson?"

Availability of a typical week

(GMT -04:00) New York
MonTueWedThuFriSatSun
0
  Monday at 0:00
  Tuesday at 0:00
  Wednesday at 0:00
  Thursday at 0:00
  Friday at 0:00
  Saturday at 0:00
  Sunday at 0:00
1
  Monday at 1:00
  Tuesday at 1:00
  Wednesday at 1:00
  Thursday at 1:00
  Friday at 1:00
  Saturday at 1:00
  Sunday at 1:00
2
  Monday at 2:00
  Tuesday at 2:00
  Wednesday at 2:00
  Thursday at 2:00
  Friday at 2:00
  Saturday at 2:00
  Sunday at 2:00
3
  Monday at 3:00
  Tuesday at 3:00
  Wednesday at 3:00
  Thursday at 3:00
  Friday at 3:00
  Saturday at 3:00
  Sunday at 3:00
4
  Monday at 4:00
  Tuesday at 4:00
  Wednesday at 4:00
  Thursday at 4:00
  Friday at 4:00
  Saturday at 4:00
  Sunday at 4:00
5
  Monday at 5:00
  Tuesday at 5:00
  Wednesday at 5:00
  Thursday at 5:00
  Friday at 5:00
  Saturday at 5:00
  Sunday at 5:00
6
  Monday at 6:00
  Tuesday at 6:00
  Wednesday at 6:00
  Thursday at 6:00
  Friday at 6:00
  Saturday at 6:00
  Sunday at 6:00
7
  Monday at 7:00
  Tuesday at 7:00
  Wednesday at 7:00
  Thursday at 7:00
  Friday at 7:00
  Saturday at 7:00
  Sunday at 7:00
8
  Monday at 8:00
  Tuesday at 8:00
  Wednesday at 8:00
  Thursday at 8:00
  Friday at 8:00
  Saturday at 8:00
  Sunday at 8:00
9
  Monday at 9:00
  Tuesday at 9:00
  Wednesday at 9:00
  Thursday at 9:00
  Friday at 9:00
  Saturday at 9:00
  Sunday at 9:00
10
  Monday at 10:00
  Tuesday at 10:00
  Wednesday at 10:00
  Thursday at 10:00
  Friday at 10:00
  Saturday at 10:00
  Sunday at 10:00
11
  Monday at 11:00
  Tuesday at 11:00
  Wednesday at 11:00
  Thursday at 11:00
  Friday at 11:00
  Saturday at 11:00
  Sunday at 11:00
12
  Monday at 12:00
  Tuesday at 12:00
  Wednesday at 12:00
  Thursday at 12:00
  Friday at 12:00
  Saturday at 12:00
  Sunday at 12:00
13
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
14
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
15
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
16
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
17
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
18
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
19
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
20
  Monday at 20:00
  Tuesday at 20:00
  Wednesday at 20:00
  Thursday at 20:00
  Friday at 20:00
  Saturday at 20:00
  Sunday at 20:00
21
  Monday at 21:00
  Tuesday at 21:00
  Wednesday at 21:00
  Thursday at 21:00
  Friday at 21:00
  Saturday at 21:00
  Sunday at 21:00
22
  Monday at 22:00
  Tuesday at 22:00
  Wednesday at 22:00
  Thursday at 22:00
  Friday at 22:00
  Saturday at 22:00
  Sunday at 22:00
23
  Monday at 23:00
  Tuesday at 23:00
  Wednesday at 23:00
  Thursday at 23:00
  Friday at 23:00
  Saturday at 23:00
  Sunday at 23:00
from 20.15€Online via webcam

Good-fit Instructor Guarantee


If you are not satisfied after your first lesson, Apprentus will find you another instructor or will refund your first lesson.

Online reputation

  • Instructor since August 2021
  • Phone number verified
  • Google connected

Availability of a typical week

(GMT -04:00) New York
MonTueWedThuFriSatSun
0
  Monday at 0:00
  Tuesday at 0:00
  Wednesday at 0:00
  Thursday at 0:00
  Friday at 0:00
  Saturday at 0:00
  Sunday at 0:00
1
  Monday at 1:00
  Tuesday at 1:00
  Wednesday at 1:00
  Thursday at 1:00
  Friday at 1:00
  Saturday at 1:00
  Sunday at 1:00
2
  Monday at 2:00
  Tuesday at 2:00
  Wednesday at 2:00
  Thursday at 2:00
  Friday at 2:00
  Saturday at 2:00
  Sunday at 2:00
3
  Monday at 3:00
  Tuesday at 3:00
  Wednesday at 3:00
  Thursday at 3:00
  Friday at 3:00
  Saturday at 3:00
  Sunday at 3:00
4
  Monday at 4:00
  Tuesday at 4:00
  Wednesday at 4:00
  Thursday at 4:00
  Friday at 4:00
  Saturday at 4:00
  Sunday at 4:00
5
  Monday at 5:00
  Tuesday at 5:00
  Wednesday at 5:00
  Thursday at 5:00
  Friday at 5:00
  Saturday at 5:00
  Sunday at 5:00
6
  Monday at 6:00
  Tuesday at 6:00
  Wednesday at 6:00
  Thursday at 6:00
  Friday at 6:00
  Saturday at 6:00
  Sunday at 6:00
7
  Monday at 7:00
  Tuesday at 7:00
  Wednesday at 7:00
  Thursday at 7:00
  Friday at 7:00
  Saturday at 7:00
  Sunday at 7:00
8
  Monday at 8:00
  Tuesday at 8:00
  Wednesday at 8:00
  Thursday at 8:00
  Friday at 8:00
  Saturday at 8:00
  Sunday at 8:00
9
  Monday at 9:00
  Tuesday at 9:00
  Wednesday at 9:00
  Thursday at 9:00
  Friday at 9:00
  Saturday at 9:00
  Sunday at 9:00
10
  Monday at 10:00
  Tuesday at 10:00
  Wednesday at 10:00
  Thursday at 10:00
  Friday at 10:00
  Saturday at 10:00
  Sunday at 10:00
11
  Monday at 11:00
  Tuesday at 11:00
  Wednesday at 11:00
  Thursday at 11:00
  Friday at 11:00
  Saturday at 11:00
  Sunday at 11:00
12
  Monday at 12:00
  Tuesday at 12:00
  Wednesday at 12:00
  Thursday at 12:00
  Friday at 12:00
  Saturday at 12:00
  Sunday at 12:00
13
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
14
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
15
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
16
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
17
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
18
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
19
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
20
  Monday at 20:00
  Tuesday at 20:00
  Wednesday at 20:00
  Thursday at 20:00
  Friday at 20:00
  Saturday at 20:00
  Sunday at 20:00
21
  Monday at 21:00
  Tuesday at 21:00
  Wednesday at 21:00
  Thursday at 21:00
  Friday at 21:00
  Saturday at 21:00
  Sunday at 21:00
22
  Monday at 22:00
  Tuesday at 22:00
  Wednesday at 22:00
  Thursday at 22:00
  Friday at 22:00
  Saturday at 22:00
  Sunday at 22:00
23
  Monday at 23:00
  Tuesday at 23:00
  Wednesday at 23:00
  Thursday at 23:00
  Friday at 23:00
  Saturday at 23:00
  Sunday at 23:00
from 20.15€Online via webcam

Good-fit Instructor Guarantee


If you are not satisfied after your first lesson, Apprentus will find you another instructor or will refund your first lesson.

Share

You are here


Arno
Mathematics Physics Chemistry Latin Greek Portuguese Spanish French Italian Dutch English German
Since the Gymnasium I give tutoring Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry, Latin and language courses Latin languages Portuguese Spanish French and Italian from basic or beginner level to Gymnasium level. For primary school students also arithmetic for example with fractions and percentages and all other modules. Also Dutch grammar and spelling.

Phillip
Online practice lessons for your children: simplify their studies!
It is obvious that school life can be demanding. It's sometimes difficult to juggle daily responsibilities while ensuring your children succeed in French, English, history and geography. My name is Phillip, and I'm here to lighten the load for you. With over 20 years of experience as a tutor/tutor, my goal is to help you find balance and offer you a valuable helping hand. As an early childhood educator, I am able to understand the unique needs of each child. In addition to my expertise, I am bilingual in English and French, with American and French-speaking Swiss origins. Currently based in Ireland, I combine an international perspective with a passion for education. You can count on me to provide your children with high-quality lessons in a caring learning environment. Allow me to take over, answer their questions, and create an environment conducive to their growth. You no longer have to worry about problematic materials. Contact me today, and together we can pave the way to a positive educational future for your children. You deserve to relax and leave your children's learning in good hands. Let me accompany you on this path to academic success and well-being.

Benoit
Private online mathematics lessons - Qualified and experienced teacher
I am a qualified and experienced mathematics tutor. Graduated from the Free University of Brussels in 2011, I started my career by teaching remedial courses in different schools in Brussels. I then specialized in individual academic support by following educational training at the Harvard Graduate School of Education. I have been giving private mathematics lessons daily for over ten years. The students who follow my private lessons benefit from personalized support. The first session is devoted to an in-depth assessment of the student's mathematical knowledge. The objective is to detect its weak points and understand their origin in order to adapt my courses to its needs. I develop a tailor-made remediation program for each of my students aimed at filling each of their gaps. Over the course of the sessions, the student builds a solid foundation for learning and regains self-confidence. At the same time, I help him acquire a work methodology that allows him to gradually become autonomous in his studies. I have a perfect knowledge of the mathematics program of the College and the High School (from the Sixth to the Terminale). During my formative years, I studied and developed many techniques that make it easier to learn math. The strength of my pedagogical approach lies in my ability to explain in a simple way everything that the student finds complicated. I am passionate about this job because it gives me the opportunity to guide dropout students on the path to success. It is a real pleasure to see them evolve and come to terms with the fantastic world of mathematics. I provide my private lessons in Limoges (at the student's home) or remotely (online via the internet). My distance learning courses take place on an interactive online whiteboard. This board is specially designed to promote student/teacher interaction on the internet. Thanks to this educational tool, my online courses are as effective as home courses. The student only needs an internet connection and a computer, tablet, or smartphone to take advantage of it.

Sandra
Spanish as a Foreign Language (From Basic to Advanced)
I am a Cambridge-educated social scientist with extensive experience in the education sector and international communications. Trained as a journalist and academic, I possess a specialised command of the Spanish language and grammar. My transdisciplinary training and my knowledge of various educational systems, given my teaching work in Canada, Chile and the United Kingdom, allows me to provide a comprehensive vision to each student and adapt to multiple scenarios and needs. I teach Spanish as a foreign language from a basic to an advanced level. It will be a pleasure to accompany you on your way to immerse yourself in the language and its cultural context. My motto is always to find a way to motivate my students and make them progress according to their needs and goals. In my class, you will find an abundant use of visual resources to stimulate memory and a flexible approach to achieve comprehensive language command from everyday life situations to specialised topics. My courses include: - Spanish courses for specific purposes (tourism, academic, business). - Spanish grammar / Use of language / Language Skills Practicum. - Language through culture (Hispano-American cinema, music and popular culture)

Nesrine
French lessons for kids, pupils, students, and adults!🏆
I am happy to help you learn the French language: 📚written or 🎤🎧oral or both. It depends on your needs. I follow the institut Français programmes to design my course. Through videos, audios, images, texts, songs, stories... learners will learn how to listen, speak, read, and write in French. You will be comfortable and motivated. There will be no stress or routine. I am patient and a good listener. If you want to improve your French skills, or you have an exam or homework, contact me💐 🏵️

Awni
Online English tutoring/conversation and exam preparation for all levels and ages
I'm offering individual and personalized classes according to your level , groups also are welcome to join. I will adapt to your needs and objectives :Grammar, conversation, vocabulary and culture. My method will take you step by step to meet your goal! I am dynamic, easy-going and full of energy! All material will be provided to you by email. Lessons are well organized I can suggest a weekly task In addition, I can provide support in proofreading and translation. If you need help, I am here to listen. About me: Highly qualified English teacher, who prefer many methods of interacting with learners, because I think that every student has their own way of learning. I have gained extensive experience from my previous studies in the Master of Language Teaching Methods, my researches also have helped me to have a huge background about language aquisition, plus that I have worked as a tutor and translator in Europe for years. So: Learning new language can open extra doors for your career path. I'm glad to put my experience in your service and answer your questions. Any age or level is welcome also students of school or university. I can lead you to pass international tests such as TOEFL and IELTS. Language of teaching can be English, Arabic, French or Spanish. Classes can be via Skype or zoom etc...

Bibek
Limit, Derivative, Integral (or Anti-derivative) and their Applications (High School and University Level)
Hi! Welcome! I am a Ph.D. researcher in Physics at the University of Cologne, Germany. Recently, I graduated from the University of Groningen in the Netherlands with a Master's degree in Nanoscience (w/ cum Laude). I offer private tutoring (for high school and/or university-level students) so you can understand the fundamental concepts and excel in your studies. I have teaching experience of 5+ years in Physics and Mathematics to the high school and university-level students. This class aims to provide an overview of calculus and focuses on the fundamental mathematical tools and concepts such as limits, differentiation, and integration. Building on these basic concepts, we will review methods for solving problems related to their applications. Note that this course will be tailored to your specific needs, and we could mainly focus on the topics you are struggling with. Furthermore, please feel free to contact me and suggest any other topics you would like me to cover and teach. Outline of the course: ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 1.1 Limits of functions 1.2 Evaluate the limits using L'Hospital's rule (for 0/0, ∞/∞) 1.3 Continuity, types of discontinuities, intermediate value theorem ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 1.4 Introduction to differentiation (or derivative) 1.5 Tangent line to a curve, slope, instantaneous velocity 1.6 Rules and theorems for differentiation: power rule, product rule, chain rule 1.7 Derivatives of exp, log, and trigonometric functions 1.8 Implicit function and implicit differentiation 1.9 Derivative of inverse functions 1.10 Second and higher-order derivatives 1.11 Application of derivatives 1.12 Geometrical interpretation of the derivative of a function 1.13 Rolle's theorem, mean value theorem, critical point, maximum/minimum of a function 1.14 First and second derivative tests, inflection points ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 1.15 Anti-derivative, indefinite integral 1.16 Techniques of integration: integration by substitution, integration by parts 1.17 Definite integral and its application (area between curves, application in physics) 1.18 Area as a definite integral 1.19 Areas between two curves and many more... *Note that the sessions will be held online (via Discord/Zoom/Microsoft Teams).

Carlos
SPANISH CLASSES FOR ADULTS - SPANISH SCHOOL SUPPORT FOR FOREIGN CHILDREN
Professor with a Diploma in Teaching from the University of the Balearic Islands. Postgraduate degree in Expertise in Teaching Spanish as a Foreign Language from the University of Cantabria. 20 years of experience in teaching Spanish to foreigners and tutoring Spanish as a second language for British and French children. British Council C1 English Certificate.

Lucía
Spanish (all levels) with an official DELE examiner (A1–C2)!
I am a certified Spanish teacher and official DELE examiner at the Instituto Cervantes. I hold a Master's degree in Spanish as a Foreign Language and another in International Education and Bilingualism. I am currently a PhD candidate in Applied Linguistics for Language Teaching, where I research methodologies that I can apply to my own classes. I have extensive teaching experience in academies and universities in Europe and Asia, as well as five years of online teaching. I offer individualized programs for all levels of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (A1–C2), with specialization in: - General Spanish (for adults, teenagers and children) - Communicative Spanish (discussion sessions to improve pronunciation, fluency, and vocabulary expansion) - Spanish for Specific Purposes (travel, business, academic) - Preparation for DELE, SIELE and IB exams Each program is tailored to your goals and learning style, combining an active communicative approach with functional grammar analysis. For those taking the DELE exam, I guarantee thorough preparation and ongoing support so you can approach the exam with complete confidence. I work online from Spain with a very flexible schedule; I'm happy to adapt classes to your availability and guide you toward solid, measurable progress. I also offer in-person classes in Málaga. If you'd like to improve your Spanish level, whether for travel, professional communication, or certifying your language skills, I'd be happy to support you on your journey. Contact me, and we'll design your study plan together! And if you enjoy the class, please consider leaving me a review! 😊🌟 Thank you! I'll see you in class!

Justin
(Online) Professional & Academic English with American Instructor and Journalist
I am a native American English speaking instructor, editor, journalist, and legal/policy expert from Florida specializing in instruction, interview and exam prep, consulting and text correction for a wide range of professionals & students across Belgium including in the legal, academic, policy, and other fields. I am available to meet in both Brussels. My past & present clients have included: professionals and politicians from all four major EU institutions, the Belgian government, the UNHCR, and various NGOs, alongside diplomats, doctors, journalists, and engineers, as well as a variety of other professions in addition to traditional students..I have had over 35+ repeat students on Apprentus (which recently changed their algorithm to only display the last six months). Approaching from a true native's perspective, I instruct and assist with both educational and business English in a multi-faceted nature covering a wide range of areas including comprehension, conversation, grammar, and situational skills, in addition to working on general language skills and accent training. As well, I can provide extensive help and training with the EPSO, IELTS, and TOEFL exams. I have also written, edited or proofread a variety of academic papers, theses, applications, CVs, and other documents for numerous satisfied academic and professional clients. I have spent my entire childhood and adult life in the United States before completing a master's degree in Political Science and European Politics at KU Leuven. Additionally, I also possess Bachelor's degrees in Political Science and History. I have an extensive knowledge and experience of English grammar and literature, as well as current and past working experience in journalism (Anti-Competition Law and European Policy at the Policy and Regulatory Report) and both European and American politics. I have no problem meeting anywhere in Brussels or further afield within the region. I also handle correction of text, editing, proofreading and ghostwriting, with weekly and monthly rates possible. My transportation costs are included.

Erika
Spanish & English Lessons with Erika in Belgium :)
Teaching is my passion, and as a native speaker, I've had the pleasure of connecting with students worldwide, starting from my experiences in the Czech Republic where I used to teach English to children. We can delve into the intricacies of communication, focusing on what matters to you. I prepare students for tests like DELE and SIELE, tailoring my approach to your unique goals—whether it's acing an exam, exploring the world, or simply diving into language and culture. My lessons take a casual twist—we might stroll around, grab a coffee or tea, and make learning an enjoyable experience. The best part for me is when students express gratitude for our time together. I believe language is more than just words, and I look forward to sharing my perspective with you. Can't wait to meet you and start this language journey together!

Abir
English lessons for children and teenagers (english lessons)
Hi everyone! 👋 I’m Abir, a passionate and experienced English teacher from Tunisia. 🇹🇳 My goal is to help children and teenagers master English in a fun, interactive, and motivating way. 🎯 What Can I Offer? 📚 Simple and enjoyable lessons tailored to your child’s level and learning needs. 🗣️ A strong focus on improving speaking skills and building confidence. ✏️ Activities to boost grammar, vocabulary, and comprehension. 💡 Personalized methods that keep your child engaged and motivated! ✨ Why Choose My Lessons? I believe that every child can excel in English when they enjoy the process. 🌟 I provide a positive, encouraging environment where learning feels natural and rewarding. Together, we’ll unlock their full potential! 📍 Location 🖥️ All lessons are conducted online via webcam, so your child can learn from the comfort of home. 📩 Ready to give your child a head start in English? Contact me now to schedule their first lesson! Let’s make learning English a joyful adventure! 🚀

Claire
Business English - Mastering English for Your Success
Welcome to my Business English Course! I am a Cambridge University graduate with an overall IELTS score of 8, including 8 in Speaking. With extensive experience working in English-speaking professional environments, I have successfully guided numerous students to improve their business communication skills in a short time. This course offers clear, well-structured lessons focused on key business scenarios such as meetings, presentations, negotiations, and networking. My teaching approach is logical, inspirational, and practical, ensuring you gain confidence and speak with clarity and professionalism. Join me to elevate your business English, impress colleagues and clients, and open doors to global career opportunities.

Zouhir
Boost your English skills from the comfort of your home with our online private classes!
Boost your English skills from the comfort of your home with our online private classes! Personalized lessons tailored to your learning style, flexible schedules, and expert tutors to help you achieve fluency. Whether you're a beginner or looking to perfect your language skills, our private sessions are designed to meet your goals. Enroll now and start speaking English confidently today!

Houssam
Improve Your English with Personalized Online Classes!
Improve Your English with Personalized Online Classes! Whether you're preparing for an exam, aiming to boost your career, or simply want to communicate more confidently, our private online English classes are designed to help you reach your goals—on your schedule. 📚 What We Offer: ✅ One-on-one lessons tailored to your level and interests ✅ Flexible scheduling – learn anytime, anywhere ✅ Certified and experienced native/non-native English teachers ✅ Focus on speaking, listening, grammar, writing, or test preparation (IELTS, TOEFL, etc.) ✅ Interactive tools and real-life conversations