Learning Ways
Learning Ways
Learning Ways
If you talk to
him in his own language, that goes to his heart.” – Nelson Mandela
Although learning a new language can be very challenging, it’s definitely rewarding.
Building language skills doesn’t happen overnight. Especially if you want to become
a fluent speaker.
But with reliable learning sources and regular (and smart) practice, you might get
there sooner than you think.
So, there’s no secret formula. Linguists and scientists are still trying to determine the
best way to learn a language.
You should surround yourself with the language and listen to it, as much as you can.
Immersion-based learning is indeed the most natural way to pick up new words,
phrases, and expressions. But that’s also a great way to learn functional grammar.
But if you can’t travel at the moment, don’t worry. There are other ways to immerse
yourself in a language you’re learning.
For example, the best language learning apps are focused on immersion. They will
allow you to listen to native speakers and use the target language as much as possible.
Besides using an immersive language app, you should surround yourself with the
language in other ways.
Watch foreign movies and TV shows. And when you feel ready, watch them without
subtitles.
And try to speak the language in different situations, even if it’s not necessary. For
instance, if you’re making dinner, you can try to name each ingredient. If you don’t
know the word, that would be a nice chance to look it up and learn something new.
And if you’re taking live or virtual language classes, talking to your teacher will help
you understand how the language works.
If you learn individual words rather than sentences and lexical chunks, you might
expand your vocabulary but you won’t improve your conversational skills. And then
when you have to actually use the language, you will probably feel confused (or talk
like a robot.)
Contextual learning will allow you to apply your knowledge and express yourself
with precision.
It will also improve your ability to guess the meaning from the context. And that’s
really important, especially when you’re just starting out.
That way, you’ll also get valuable cultural insights. And learning about culture,
people, and customs is an important part of acquiring language skills.
Plus, you won’t have to go through dry translations, word lists, and grammar rules –
but you’ll learn them anyway!
So, whether you’re traveling around or you’re taking app-based lessons, learning a
foreign language through context will make your learning process easier as well as
more interesting.
A language app can be a great learning tool, but you can also use it as your primary
learning source (if it’s thorough and well-structured.)
Nevertheless, the best apps to learn a language use cutting-edge technology, speech
recognition software, and modern online study tools.
They are designed to make your learning process smooth and fun.
Some of them use ramified features to keep you motivated, and others offer detailed,
linear lessons created to take your skills to the next level step-by-step.
And they can offer you a chance to learn a rarely taught language. And that’s a huge
advantage, especially if your living area doesn’t have language classes.
With a language application, you can take classes anytime, anywhere. If the app has a
hands-free mode, you can even learn while you’re commuting or walking your dog.
It’s all very practical and convenient.
However, if you decide to use an app to learn a new language, you probably won’t
become fluent. Many apps are great for beginners but they don’t offer advanced
content. Unless you opt for an app that offers virtual one-on-one lessons.
But if you combine different apps and online courses, or use them as a supplemental
learning source, you can undoubtedly enhance your comprehension and
communication skills.
Apps and online language courses are also great for goal-oriented learners.
For example, if you want to focus on practical vocabulary useful for traveling, there’s
an app for that.
If you want to learn other writing systems, there’s an app for that.
With so many great options on the market, learning a new language by yourself has
never been easier, and you should take advantage of that.
However, grammar is the foundation of every language. It’s a system of rules that
allow us to structure sentences.
Well, it’s true that learning grammar can be challenging. Especially if you think about
it that way.
But learning grammar doesn’t have to involve memorizing a bunch of rules from a
textbook.
Grammar can be taught through examples, stories, and, once again, context!
And you should study grammar in a relaxed environment. There’s no room for stress
and frustrations.
What we’re trying to say is that grammar matters. And a different approach to
learning grammar matters even more.
Learning grammar is not a prerequisite but it will help you increase accuracy and
learn the language a little faster. You can see it as a shortcut or a formula for building
sentences and expressing yourself.
And saying that grammar is a shortcut is probably a bit paradoxical since learning
grammar takes time. And we won’t lie to you – it does take time, even if you use
innovative learning methods.
But once you start learning it, you’ll realize it’s not that complicated. Things will start
to make sense. And it will definitely be worthwhile in the end.
On the other hand, if you’re planning to travel and you simply want to learn practical
vocabulary to get around the city, you don’t have to spend a lot of time and energy
mastering grammar.
It’s almost like musicians and notes; you cannot play an instrument without learning
notes. But you can’t expect to become a pro if you don’t know how to read sheet
music.
And that can be a tricky one, especially if the language you’re studying is completely
different from your native language.
So, if you’re taking app-based lessons or online language classes, you need to make
sure that your learning program includes pronunciation practice.
And listening to native speakers (or teachers) is arguably the best way to master a
foreign accent.
Many language apps promise to teach you how to have a near-native accent. But you
can do without a near-native accent just fine – if you want to.
After all, it doesn’t matter if someone can hear your foreign accent as long as they can
understand what you’re trying to say.
So, don’t worry about not having a perfect pronunciation. After all, having a literally
perfect pronunciation is very hard. So, focus your energy on more important elements.
6. Study smart
When it comes to the best ways to learn a language, it’s important to know that you
need to find the way to learn a language that works best for you.
Although the guidelines we mentioned today are relevant for everyone, you need to
pay attention to your learning habits as well.
For example, are you a visual learner or do you prefer studying by listening?
You should find an app or a language course that suits your learning style. That’s how
you’ll be more productive.
If you like immersive programs, you can try a language program based on stories. If
you’re fond of innovative apps, why not try to learn a virtual reality language
program?
You should know how to learn faster and more efficiently while retaining information
for longer – in other words, study smart.
If you have a tight schedule or you want to master the basics as quickly as possible,
it’s crucial to make the most of your lessons.
But that will also help you learn the language in a proper way. If you build a solid
foundation, everything will be easier later on.
So, even if you’re a beginner, you need to use the language as much as you can.
If you’re having a chance to talk to a native speaker, do it. If you’re traveling, start the
conversation with the locals. That’s how you’ll learn the slang and also work on your
conversational skills.
Don’t let that discourage you. It might be intimidating to talk to a native person, and
you might be afraid to embarrass yourself, but if you don’t try it, you won’t be able to
overcome those fears.
And if you’re having a friend who speaks the language you’re studying, tell them to
correct you or give you suggestions.
Try to establish a study routine. If you find that difficult or you still lack self-
discipline, you can try it with a language app first.
Language apps can add structure to your learning process. They can provide you with
bite-sized daily lessons, remind you when you need to study, and keep you motivated.
It’s normal to feel discouraged from time to time. Sometimes you might feel like
you’re not moving forward or that things are too hard. But maybe you’ve set
unrealistic goals for yourself.
For example, some language programs and apps promise to take you to an
intermediate level in a couple of weeks. But acquiring a new language is usually a
slow process.
Although you’ll probably learn how to have a basic conversation in less than a month,
you shouldn’t feel frustrated if it’s not what you’ve expected it to be.
Also, try not to rush. It’s better to take short lessons every day. Unless there’s a
reason why you want to learn the language as soon as possible.
Many language apps and classes are based on bite-sized lessons. This will also give
you the opportunity to memorize and internalize what you’ve learned.
Speaking of memorizing new words, the best language learning apps use spaced
repetition. It’s a popular learning technique based on reviewing and recalling
information at specific time intervals. It’s usually performed with flashcards.
As you can see, there are many ways to practice the language efficiently. You just
need to find a method that works for you and keep at it.
But there’s one thing you can do to make sure you don’t give up – make your learning
process interesting and fun.
You can combine different learning apps or study tools. Try playing games, solving
quizzes, and doing interactive exercises.
There are also online forums and conversations you can join. You can share your
doubts and problems, and you’ll soon realize you’re not alone.
You can also read in the language you’re learning, watch movies, and so on. As we’ve
mentioned earlier, it’s all about immersion. And immersion can be fun.
Also, you can learn a new language with friend. You can study together and keep
motivating each other. Or play competitive games if that’s your thing.
Either way, learning languages doesn’t have to be just sitting down with your
textbook or smartphone and studying. Try new methods and tools and connect with
other learners and native speakers.
Self-discipline and hard work are important in acquiring new skills. But all of that
will have better results if you add fun to the mix.
Final Thoughts
Well, one thing is for sure: learning languages can and should be a fun and enjoyable
experience.
If you find a good learning resource and develop learning habits, you will
undoubtedly achieve your goals.
You should also make simple, short-term goals, and opt for engaging and effective
lessons.
And you should surround yourself with the language. Consume foreign-language
media, watch movies without subtitles, listen to music…
Finally, talk with native speakers! That will help you build confidence and enhance
your communication skills.
And if you’re on a trip, meeting the locals will also remind you how amazing it feels
to speak a foreign language.