April 30, 2010
One of the strongest arguments for using a language software for acquisition is the ability to custom-fit the lessons according to your particular needs. In terms of comparison, it’s more akin to a specially-tailored training plan than a traditional language class, making it one of the best available options for learners hoping to master a vernacular.
What kinds of things can a language software be customized for?
1. Your learning style. The best language software account for all possible styles of learning, giving you options about the kinds of instructions that suits you best. From classroom-style lectures to multimedia lessons to simulated immersion techniques, they provide learning from all angles.
2. Your history with the language. How far along are you in the language? Enrolling in French 101 probably won’t be very beneficial if you’ve already got the basics down pat. That’s why a good language learning software lets you jump into the lessons that are more fitting of your current progression.
3. Your purpose for the language. Why do you need to learn the language? What are your goals for it? If you need it for extended travel, getting a business language education probably won’t be a good fit. That’s why you should look for language software that’s either cut specifically for your intended purposes or one that compartmentalizes lessons according to the user’s particular goals.
4. Your available schedule. Whether you want daily, weekly or sporadic lessons, a language software can be used to facilitate it. Of course, we remain firm in our advice to keep a regular schedule (e.g. five times a week, 30 minutes per day), but the flexibility should be good news for busy individuals.
April 29, 2010
We’ve mentioned several times how you can use instant messaging as a medium to practice any language you’re studying. In fact, you can use it as a way to receive instruction too, in case you opt for “long-distance tutoring.”
Back in 2006, an associate professor from Montclair State University published the results of a study on how students responded to collaborative language learning conducted over IM. That person, Susana M. Sotillo, used transcripts from five pairs of students (one tutor and one student) who used online chat for language learning over nine weeks.
The conclusion over nine weeks worth of study was supported the positive views on IM: the hands-on nature of the medium facilitated higher retention, compared to traditional forms of one-on-one tutoring.
While those findings are for IM use, the hands-on style of learning is perfectly applicable for a whole other group of language students – those who use a language training software. Both mediums are multi-dimensional, incorporating written instructions, audio recordings and an interactive feedback mechanism, providing a learning method that’s more comprehensive.
Does this mean that we should give up on traditional classroom instruction and face-to-face tutoring? Not really. However, the usefulness of the format allows for a working alternative that language learners can use, which will come very handy when the more conventional options aren’t as readily available.
April 28, 2010
Children are natural learners. This is especially true in language acquisition, with numerous researches harping on the value of beginning training before the age of 10. Since they’re still young, there’s really none of the same “adult” pressures, allowing them to take to the new language in a more natural and relaxed manner.
Exposing Kids to Language
If you find formal language lessons a bit too much for your children, you can start by exposing them elements of the language. Use games, music and other materials that young minds can relate too, all while providing them “experiences” of the language.
Having people around who speak the target language will probably be the best influencer, though. Individuals, including children, have a natural desire to understand conversations going on around them, eventually prodding them to learn the language in an organic manner.
Starting Language Lessons
If you feel that your child is old enough to get formal training in a language, the best option is usually one of those home-based language programs designed specifically for kids. There’s a good host of them, from DVD videos to books to full-featured multimedia software.
As the parent, you should also brush up on ways you can help your kids learn language. Pay special attention to their individual learning styles, along with the optimal strategies and activities to help them learn.
April 27, 2010
One thing you will notice among Asians who speak a Western language (e.g. English, German, French) is the presence of a very thick accent. Some people like to say that it’s common for non-native speakers. However, it probably has more to do with the way the language was taught (either by the class they enrolled in or their preferred language software) than any genetic predisposition.
Most of Asia learn foreign languages under the Grammar-Translation Method. This is true whether they’re studying English in Korea, Spanish in the Philippines or Italian in Malaysia. For some reason, learners in the continent (or their teachers) look at reading and writing skills as crucial to truly learning a language, making the study of grammar in a foreign language program a worthy undertaking.
Maybe it has to do with the premium many Asians put on the ability to read and write. Aren’t Asians stereotyped as booksmart students, after all? Maybe it’s just because Asian languages are set up that way, making it the natural choice for acquiring a second language skill.
The issue with the Grammar-Translation Method is that it embraces pronunciation based on phonetics. As you probably noticed with the English language, the “right” way to speak isn’t necessarily the “common” way of speaking. Natives develop speech patterns that are different from what they’re supposed to sound like if you follow the rules. Thus, the noticeable accents despite adherence to all the proper rules of the language.
April 24, 2010
Expectations can play a huge part in language learning. Set them too high and your language training can end in disappointment. Set them too low and you can find yourself progressing too slow.
That’s why we’re always told to:
- Set reasonable expectations.
- Maintain reasonable goals.
- Go after activities that are achievable within your current level of skill.
One area you should definitely set reasonable expectations on is making mistakes. We’ve been conditioned, for the most part, to avoid showing faults, lest be penalized, especially in school settings. Bringing the same attitude to your language learning can be disastrous.
In the acquisition of languages, whether you use a language study software or take a class, being open to committing mistakes is easily one of the most important mindsets to adopt. Rather than a negative learning indicator, committing errors by trying to speak or write with a target language is actually a very positive development. It’s a very natural, completely predictable part of the language learning process.
This will be especially true in the beginning, when everything that comes out of a native speaker’s mouth just sounds like gibberish. Your listening, processing and speaking abilities will take time to adjust – give it room to catch up at its own pace.
April 23, 2010
There have been thousands of research on immersion-based language learning, majority of them pointing towards a similar conclusion: it works. Of course, you will likely have a tougher experience early on (you’re basically going from 0 to 60 in a flash), but if you embrace it and remain open to the potential struggles, almost anyone can succeed this way.
Immersion programs, which involve direct experience of a language for acquisition, are popular among a large group of language students. In fact, I’ve met several multi-lingual people who say they prefer diving into the culture and living the language immediately, compared to taking a more structured approach to fluency.
What do you need in order to learn a language this way?
1. Confidence. Language immersion is not for the onion-skinned. Seriously, you’ll feel doubts creep in every time you leave the house and attempt to “immerse” yourself in the language. You’ll need all the confidence you can muster to take risks and accept rejection, both of which you’ll experience many.
2. A strong will. Immersion can lead to many days of frustration. You need an iron-clad will to push through all the struggles you’re likely to encounter.
Personally, I’m not a fan of the “daredevil” approach promoted by proponents of direct immersion as a primary method for language acquisition. My own preference is to use a language practice software, using some amount of immersion as an opportunity for practice.
At the end of the day, you’ll have to make a choice based on your personality. Which approach can work best for you?
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