About Page
About the Author:
Dr. Matthew Dean
Matthew Dean (Mateo) grew up speaking only English. As an undergraduate, he began his exploration of Spanish, fell in love with the language and cultures, and never looked back. He began teaching Spanish at San Diego State University in 1997. Currently, he is a Professor at Cal Poly Humboldt. He has taught all levels of Spanish language, literature, and culture, and has directed many study abroad programs. As a non-native Spanish speaker, Dr. Dean understands the struggles of the language learner. He has taught Spanish to thousands of community college and university students and invites you to start your language adventure today.
About the Textbook
Beginning Spanish Language and Culture is a peer-reviewed open-access Spanish I textbook by Matthew Dean (Cal Poly Humboldt, 2020), tailored for true beginners, especially U.S. college students. Clear learning objectives guide each part, and grammar and vocabulary are introduced in manageable chunks, followed by individual and interpersonal practice. Available below for a free pdf download. Print on demand copies are available through AMAZON for around $10. Educators commend its clarity, consistency, flexibility, and scaffolded flipped‑classroom approach, though they often supplement it with additional cultural content and visuals due to its primary focus on structure over immersive cultural depth.
About the Website
CollegeSpanish.com is the second edition of the ebook Beginning Spanish Language and Culture. Once the ebook came out, requests came for supplemental materials, such as audio, video, and a workbook that can grade itself, thus CollegeSpanish.com was created. It may not have all the features that a major publisher’s textbook might have, but it is free.
About the Lessons
Anyone can access our lessons through the Table of Contents (link). Lessons contain explanations of Spanish language topics and some practice questions. Lessons are grouped together into modules for homework and in-class exercises.
About the Modules
Modules combine the content of multiple lessons and provide several practice exercises. There are two types of modules. Modules for in class exercises are located in the Table of Contents. Modules for homework exercises (Prácticas) can be accessed by registering on our site.
About the Courses
Courses include all the lessons and modules (explanations, homework, and in class activities). Lessons and in-class Modules are available on our Table of Contents, but Homework Modules require registration. Sign up for your free account today!
About the Forums
We provide a Student Forum and a Teacher Forum. Students can request help on a specific topic, share success stories, and support one another in the Student Forum. Teachers can also participate in the Student Forum. Teachers can discuss pedagogy and support one another in the Teachers Forum.
About the Policies
We have to have them, but you don’t have to read them. Long story short: we only use essential cookies.