University Professor in Semiology, Semiotics, and Culture of Design, Architecture, Urban Planning, and Communication.

From 99 C$ /h

My teaching methodology is unique because it focuses on discovering and developing your own learning methods. With over 30 years of experience in academic and professional education, I provide tailored support adapted to your specific needs, whether you are an undergraduate, graduate, doctoral student, or a professional looking to deepen your knowledge.

Personalized Approach: Each course is designed to meet your individual interests and goals. I adapt to your learning style and help you develop your own analytical and critical skills, which are essential for excelling in the fields of semiotics, architecture, urban planning, geography, and communication.

Ongoing Support: I am committed to monitoring your progress throughout your educational journey, providing regular feedback and personalized advice to ensure you stay on the path to success.

This personalized learning journey is designed to transform you into an independent and well-informed professional, capable of conducting research and carrying out projects with confidence and competence. Get ready to explore new ways of thinking and to discover the deep connections between semiotics and spatial disciplines, all while developing a working method that is truly your own.

Extra information

Hello!

My name is ISABEL.

I am an Architect, Urban Planner, and Semiotician.

I am a mentor, teacher, researcher, author, and consultant. I earned a PhD in Semiotics in 1996 from Aarhus University (Denmark). Semiotics is a lesser-known discipline that allows us to understand essential aspects such as the meanings of images, spaces, language, sounds, colors, and gestures, all of which can signify or make sense (anything that makes sense can be analyzed by this discipline). Semiotics provides a toolkit for accessing the meanings of the world we live in.

Want to know more about me and what my students think of me?

Location

Online from France

About Me

Hello!

My name is Isabel. I am an architect, urban planner, and semiotician. As a mentor, teacher, researcher, author, and consultant, I earned a PhD in Semiotics in 1996 from Aarhus University, Denmark. Semiotics is a fascinating and not widely known discipline that allows us to explore and understand the meanings of images, spaces, language, sounds, colors, and gestures. It provides a valuable toolkit for deciphering the complex world we live in.

Throughout my career, I have had the honor of teaching and conducting research in various countries, collaborating with institutions and universities across Europe, America, Africa, and Asia. I have guided numerous students through workshops in architecture, lectures in semiotics, bioclimatic architecture, and urban planning, as well as directed studies in various related fields.

My teaching approach is personalized and tailored to each student, focusing on discovering your own methodological approach. This method, developed over more than 30 years of experience, aims to enhance your critical thinking and your ability to interpret and create meaningful and communicative spaces.

I invite you to discover how I can help you deepen your understanding of semiotics and apply its principles to your personal and professional projects. Together, we will explore the semiotic dimensions of architecture, urban planning, and communication, enriching your academic and professional journey.

I look forward to collaborating with you to explore the riches of semiotics and beyond.

Best regards,
Isabel

Education

Educational Background and Qualifications

Bachelor of Architecture with a specialization in Urban Planning
Institution: Technical University of Lisbon
Year: 1989
Final Grade: 17/20

Master of Advanced Studies (D.E.A.) in Social Anthropology and Sociology
Institution: University Paris V Sorbonne
Year: 1991

Master II (C.E.A.A.) in Architectural Design Sciences
Institution: School of Architecture of Paris–La Villette
Year: 1992
Distinction: Very Honorable with Congratulations

PhD in Semiotics (Architecture and Urbanism)
Institution: Aarhus University (Center for Semiotic Research)
Year: 1996
Distinction: Very Honorable with Congratulations (publication unanimously recommended by the jury)

PhD in Communication Sciences
Institution: Faculty of Human and Social Sciences – New University of Lisbon (FCSH – UNL)
Year: 1999

Professor of Universities (qualified to direct research HDR in France)
Qualification: Qualified by the National Council of Universities (C.N.U.), France
Since: 2016
Sections: 7th and 71st sections of the CNU (France)

These credentials highlight your ongoing commitment to university teaching and research, as well as your expertise in leading advanced research projects in architecture, urban planning, and semiotics.

Experience / Qualifications

Professional Experience
Consultant, Trainer, Mentor in Semiology, General Semiotics, Design, Architecture, Urban Planning, and Communication
Since: 1996 to present

Professor in the Doctoral Program in Urban Planning
Institution: Lusophone University of Lisbon
Since: 2008 to present

Consultant, Trainer, Mentor in Ecological Design
Since: 2022 to present

Director of Research
Institution: Centre for the Philosophy of Sciences (CFCUL), University of Lisbon
Since: 2022 to present

Director of Research
Institution: Faculty of Human and Social Sciences – FCSH, New University of Lisbon – UNL
Period: 2005 to 2022
Details: Research team in Socio-spatial Modeling and Planning.

Lecturer
Institutions: Departments of Communication Sciences and Architecture, Autonomous University of Lisbon – UAL
Period: 2001-2005

Temporary Teaching Assistant in Semiology
Institution: University Paris 3 (U.F.R. Sciences of Communication)
Period: 2000-2001

Postdoctoral Research Fellow FCT
Institutions: Centre for Semiotic Research at Aarhus University, Denmark and CICTS, University of Lisbon, Portugal
Period: 1996-2000

Semiotic Communications Analysis for Municipalities and Architectural Firms
Since: 1996
Details: Design of territorial or architectural communication policies, development of communication grammars, and analysis of images from Municipal Master Plans.

International Visiting Professor and Researcher
Details: Teaching and research at various academic institutions worldwide, across all continents.

Contributions and Engagements
Elected Member and Leader of Various Semiotic Networks
Role: National Representative of Portugal for the World Association of Semiotics IASS (2009-2024) and Vice-President of the International Association for Visual Semiotics A.I.S.V. (2010-2022)

Guest Editor and Permanent Member of Scientific Committees
Journals: Semiotica, Degrés, Estudos Semióticos, Springer, Harmattan, Aracne, etc.
Since: 2011

Keynote Speaker
Detail: International invitations as a main speaker at well-known conferences.
Since: 2004

This list highlights my influential role as an academic and professional leader in the fields of semiotics, architecture, and ecological design, as well as my significant involvement in the international academic community and research networks globally.

Age

Adults (18-64 years old)

Seniors (65+ years old)

Student level

Beginner

Intermediate

Advanced

Duration

60 minutes

The class is taught in

English

French

Portuguese

Skills

Architecture

Communication skills

Culture

Availability of a typical week

(GMT -04:00)

New York

Online via webcam

Mon

Tue

Wed

Thu

Fri

Sat

Sun

00-04

04-08

08-12

12-16

16-20

20-24

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I explain my lessons in French, Arabic, or Spanish, depending on your choice.
During the sessions, I explain the course that suits your needs. There is also the option to create an open discussion so that you can speak fluently over time and avoid grammatical gaps.
And at the end of each session, I give "lessons" with "exercises" to do as homework to continue our support and increase your level.

Bring a notebook for this training (or any suitable means) to take notes and keep them.

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I teach Spanish at the Universität Greifswald (A1 and B1 courses) and have worked as a private Spanish tutor since 2019. Before moving into teaching, I spent around ten years working in communication and journalism, which shapes how I teach: through real content, real conversation, and cultural context, not just grammar drills.

What you'll work on:

Conversation practice based on real situations, not scripted dialogue.
Grammar explained clearly, with the exceptions that actually come up in use.
Cultural context from across the Spanish-speaking world.
Lessons adapted to your goals: travel, exams, professional Spanish, or general fluency.

About me:

Native Spanish speaker (Rioplatense).
German C1 (TELC C1 Hochschule) — I can explain grammar and give feedback in German if that's more comfortable for you.
Degree in Audiovisual Communication (UNSAM) and higher technical degree in Journalism (ISEC), Argentina.
7 years teaching Spanish, including university-level instruction in Germany.
Have lived and worked in Argentina, Germany, Denmark, Sweden, Spain, France, and Hungary.

Availability is currently limited — I have one open slot on Wednesday mid-morning. Message me to confirm the exact time and we'll take it from there.

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University English Instructor| Started teaching English 9 years ago| Specializing in Conversational English.

My teaching approach is designed to develop communication skills above all. We watch or read materials, such as videos, articles, stories, poems, caricatures, then discuss them; we act out situations from everyday life; we take positions and practice debates. However, this doesn’t mean that we just practice speaking. I also make sure the learner is not running in circles. I’m here to ensure that they do not keep repeating the same mistakes or keep using the same expressions over and over in conversation.
In order to keep making progress, I take my student on a journey that involves:
• Improving their grammar.
• Fixing their pronunciation.
• Enriching their vocabulary by learning to use new words and common idioms.
By the end of this course, you should be able to speak English fluently and confidently.

PS: Because of my academic specialty, I also help with academic writing and creative writing.

Giorgia

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Hello everyone!
I'm Giorgia and I come from Torino, Italy.
I offer my native knowledge of Italian to any of you, who wants to discover this beautiful language.

I teach for all levels, from very beginners to advanced speakers, passing through amateurs or simply curious of any age. I can also help with university exams and school works/assignments.
Being a pianist and a piano teacher, I already have lots of experience with teaching and pedagogical approach with the whole range of ages.

The lesson is intended to meet the student needs: the focus can be on the grammar, conversation or literature. In case of a middle-level speaker, the lesson will cover all four language's abilities: listening, speaking, writing and reading. My suggestion of a well planned lesson is, for any level, to divide it into two parts: grammar first and then conversation (covering all the abilities mentioned above).

Thank you for your attention and looking forward to meeting you !!

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French DELF & TCF Exam Preparation | Get Certified with Confidence

Are you preparing for the DELF or TCF French exam for studies, work, or immigration?
I offer professional, results-focused preparation to help you reach your target score with confidence.

🎯 What you will get:
✔ Preparation for DELF A1–C1 and TCF (all formats)
✔ Full training in the 4 official skills:

Listening

Reading

Writing

Speaking
✔ Mock exams with detailed feedback based on official criteria
✔ Exam strategies, time management & common pitfalls
✔ Vocabulary and grammar targeted to your exam level

👨‍🏫 About me:

Experienced French language instructor

Specialized in DELF & TCF exam preparation

Proven methods adapted to your level and goals

Clear explanations and confidence-building speaking practice

💻 Lesson format:
📍 Online
⏱ Flexible schedule
🌍 International students welcome

📩 Book your first lesson on Apprentus today and take the next step toward French certification!

Dr.

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Hello! I’m Yunus Emre, a Turkish language instructor working with students from many different countries around the world. I offer lessons that focus on speaking skills, supported by structured materials such as books and videos, helping you use the language correctly and naturally.

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Targeted methodology: In-depth analysis of each test (Reading/Listening Comprehension, Writing/Listening Expression) to understand exactly what the examiners expect from you.

Simulations in real-life conditions: Intensive training with official exam questions and a timer to learn how to manage your time and stress.

Personalized correction & feedback: For expression tests, I correct your productions and oral simulations to the millimeter, providing you with higher level grammatical structures and vocabulary (B2/C1/C2) that will increase your points.

TCF Tips and Pitfalls: Learning elimination techniques for MCQs and recurring traps to absolutely avoid.

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Njoo ujifunze kiswahili lugha namba moja Kwa ubora Africa utanifunza kusoma, kuandika na kuongea yaani matamshi
Well come to My class I'm teaching Swahili language to speak , write and to speak Swahili for better reasons choose my class thanks

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✅Practical sessions aimed at providing you with tools, techniques, methods and strategies to better formulate your messages, choose the right words and arguments, and more effectively obtain what you want, by understanding the psychology of your interlocutors and the mechanisms of human communication.

You're constantly negotiating—at work, with your family, in your relationships. The difference between reaching an agreement and remaining dissatisfied often lies in how things are said, the timing, and the other person's understanding. The goal is to learn to decode your interlocutors (their motivations, resistance, and ways of operating) and adapt your verbal and non-verbal communication to be better understood, without confrontation or power struggles, with finesse and efficiency, until these reflexes become second nature.

The approach integrates the analysis of behaviors, modes of expression, and verbal and non-verbal signals (semiotics, relational dynamics, profiles, and human reactions) to identify expectations, obstacles, and motivations. This allows for precise adjustment of communication and maximizes the impact of each interaction, whether in a professional or personal context.

Rather than generic techniques, it is about understanding the real functioning of the human being and adapting one's discourse to the person in front of: capturing attention, arousing curiosity, reducing resistance and triggering action.

Objective: to concretely increase your chances of obtaining the desired result, with efficiency, finesse and respect for others.

✅ THE TRAINER - TEACHER CONSULTANT
A graduate of a prestigious French Grande École and an Ivy League university in the United States, he combines academic rigor with modern teaching methods. With over 18 years of experience in Europe and North America, he has taught at prestigious international institutions (both public and private), and regularly speaks in Switzerland, France, Belgium, Luxembourg, and Canada, as well as at various forums and conferences.

A recognized specialist, he offers personalized and accessible support based on active listening, a proven methodology, and tailored teaching methods. Whether through one-on-one sessions, workshops, or group training, his approach combines customization, efficiency, and professionalism for rapid, visible results.

✅ LOCATIONS: Switzerland (Geneva, Lausanne, Fribourg, Zurich, Neuchâtel, Lugano, Basel, Bern, Lucerne), Belgium (Brussels, Antwerp, Charleroi, Liège), Luxembourg. On request: France (Paris, Lyon) and Canada (Montreal).

Currently, we primarily use videoconferencing, a highly popular format: it offers the same quality as in-person meetings, flexible organization, time savings, flexibility, comfort, and an eco-friendly approach. Content, notes, and recommendations are shared directly via a dedicated chat.

➤ Languages: French and English.
➤ Reduced and stable fees, accessible without compromising on quality.
➤ Gift vouchers available all year round.
➤ Schedules defined together according to your constraints.
➤ 100% tailor-made program, adapted to each need.
➤ Noticeable progress from 2 sessions (2026 study).

✅ Why choose this training?
-International expertise at the service of your objectives.
-Personalized sessions with concrete tools.
-A lively, interactive and results-oriented approach.
-A motivating and supportive environment, fostering confidence and rapid progress.
-Tangible results in just a few sessions.

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I offer structured lessons covering grammar, kanji, vocabulary, listening, and full mock exams to help you understand your level and improve efficiently.

For learners who prefer practical communication, I also provide conversation-only courses tailored to your level.
You can choose a class focused on daily conversation, travel Japanese, or natural speaking practice while learning essential grammar through real-life situations.

This program is ideal for:

Students preparing for JLPT N5–N1

Learners who want mock tests and clear progress tracking

People who prefer conversation-based learning

Beginners to advanced learners seeking structured, enjoyable lessons

My lessons are designed to be motivating and engaging, using topics that spark students’ interest—manga, culture, daily life, and real communication.
Let’s study Japanese together in a fun, confidence-building environment.

Cours spécialisé pour réussir l’examen JLPT (N5–N1).
Je propose des leçons structurées couvrant la grammaire, les kanji, le vocabulaire, la compréhension orale, ainsi que des examens blancs pour évaluer votre niveau et progresser efficacement.

Pour ceux qui préfèrent la communication pratique, j’offre également des cours uniquement axés sur la conversation, adaptés à votre niveau.
Vous pouvez choisir un cours centré sur la conversation quotidienne, le japonais pour les voyages ou une pratique naturelle de la langue.

Ce programme convient parfaitement :

Aux étudiants préparant le JLPT N5–N1

À ceux qui souhaitent des tests blancs et un suivi clair de leurs progrès

Aux apprenants qui préfèrent un apprentissage basé sur la conversation

Aux débutants comme aux avancés cherchant des cours motivants et structurés

Les leçons sont conçues pour être attractives et motivantes, avec des thèmes qui intéressent les étudiants : manga, culture japonaise, vie quotidienne et communication réelle.
Apprenons le japonais ensemble dans un environnement agréable et encourageant.

JLPT N5 – Beginner Level
Perfect for complete beginners.
You will learn basic grammar, essential vocabulary, hiragana, katakana, and simple kanji.
Lessons focus on everyday expressions, simple conversations, and building a strong foundation.
Mock tests are included to help you understand the exam format and gain confidence.

JLPT N4 – Elementary Level
Ideal for learners who already know basic Japanese.
We cover essential grammar patterns, daily-life vocabulary, and 300–400 kanji.
You will practice listening and reading skills through short dialogues and practical examples.
Mock exams help you track your progress and prepare for the real test.

JLPT N3 – Intermediate Level
This level bridges basic Japanese and advanced communication.
You will learn more complex grammar, longer reading passages, and real-life listening materials.
Lessons include structured explanations, targeted drills, and full mock tests.
Perfect for learners who want to communicate naturally and pass the mid-level JLPT.

JLPT N2 – Upper Intermediate Level
Designed for learners aiming for professional or academic Japanese.
You will study advanced grammar, long reading texts, and fast-paced listening exercises.
We use authentic materials such as news, articles, and real conversations.
Mock exams simulate the real JLPT to help you achieve a strong score.

JLPT N1 – Advanced Level
A specialized course for the highest level of Japanese proficiency.
You will work with complex grammar, high-level vocabulary, and challenging reading passages.
Listening practice includes natural-speed audio and real-life content.
Full mock tests and detailed feedback help you reach true mastery and pass N1 with confidence.

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Come and have a chat with me!