Listening is just as important an aspect of language learning as speaking. If you can’t listen and comprehend what other people are saying, after all, then you aren’t going to be able to foster proper communication.
Most language training software on the market focus on speaking abilities. While it’s an undeniably important component for your success, it’s only one half of the equation. Failing to develop an improved ear for the language will cause just as much miscommunication as will a lack of polish in your speaking abilities.
How do you listen better? Here are a few ways:
1. Lots of practice. Aside from your regular in-lesson practice, it also helps to listen to as much of the language in action. Take advantage of resources, such as movies, music and podcasts, to improve your ability to comprehend spoken communication from native speakers.
2. Learn to suspend judgment. Listen to communication with an open mind, rather than constantly allowing your own bias and opinion to color what you’re hearing. This takes some amount of discipline and effort, as well as a conscious decision to really want to listen.
3. Practice shadowing. Shadowing is a listening technique that involves repeating what a speaker is saying verbatim, regardless of whether you understand the meaning or not. The idea is to hone yourself to listen intently, grasping every nuanced word and changes in tone.