With over 21 years of teaching experience in the Washington D.C. area, I have dedicated my career to transforming how we understand second-language instruction. My work extends beyond the classroom; I am a researcher passionate about the impact of extralinguistic factors—such as empathy, motivation, and attitude—on Spanish language acquisition.
Throughout these two decades, I have developed and refined the Interactive Communicative Approach (ICA), a methodology that positions the student as the protagonist of their own learning. My philosophy is clear: the classroom must be a 50/50 cooperative space where real interaction and meaningful dialogue supersede the mechanical memorization of grammatical structures.
As a textbook author, my goal is to translate this methodology into instructional materials that connect with the student’s daily life. Currently, I lead the development of works such as Peru Spanish, Chévere, and Charlas de café—all texts designed under the principles of the ICA. Soon to be released is Paisita, a pedagogical project focused on developing early literacy skills in children.
For me, writing a textbook is an extension of my work as a teacher: a constant quest to make learning human, pragmatic, and, above all, a successful experience from day one. My work seeks to build a bridge between linguistic theory and authentic communication, helping every student find their voice in Spanish.
Peruvian, from Monsefú, I am a researcher who, supported by empathy and motivation, promotes a pleasant and stress-free environment, which is essential for linguistic production. And I also try to promote, from the first moment, the human and cultural aspects that help the student understand the Spanish-speaking mentality.
For eight years, I ran a free literacy and Spanish-teaching program in Rockville, Maryland.
For eight years, I ran a free literacy and Spanish-teaching program in Rockville, Maryland.
With my wife Sandra in Alcalá de Henares, Madrid
With my students Eileen and Kathy
With my students Eileen and Kathy
With my student Mr. Uwe (a German diplomat) and my brother Rubén in Madrid.