The best way to learn a language
If you have a ever learned a foreign language, you know it is not a piece of cake. It may come easier to some than others, but, in general, I think we all agree that it is quite challenging. The most common suggestion for becoming fluent in a language is to spend a significant amount of time in a country where the language of interest is spoken. Although this certainly is a great way to acquire a foreign language, not all of us are able to put our everyday lives on hold and go to live in a different country for a year. So then we naturally resort to other methods of learning such as taking classes at an institution, learning online, listening to CD’s, etc.. Nonetheless, before you decide on one of these what you should know is your learning style! A learning style is how you learn best and can be identified by taking an online test. Not many people know about this important aspect of learning and feel bad when they see other learners succeed while they fall behind. For example, this is often the case in group classes and is usually due to the instructor not incorporating a variety of learning styles into the class structure.
The truth is everyone learns differently; some learn best by seeing, others by hearing, some – in a group, while others – individually. Once you identify your learning style, you can then proceed to choose the best way to learn a language, which will bring about faster results and will make the process easier and less frustrating.
One of the most common teaching techniques out there is the aural style – students listen to the instructor and then repeat, or, if they are at a higher level, they make conversation. Often there is no writing involved, for instance, and for many students this is detrimental. I am an example of this kind of student. I cannot learn a language solely by listening, I have to see it, write it, read it and then say it; only this way does my brain remember and understand language structure, pronunciation, and so on. If you find yourself relating to this, you need to find out your learning style and you can do this by going to http://www.learning-styles-online.com/. Once you see the results, you will be more confident in choosing the right learning method.
Good luck and remember: To have another language is to possess a second soul!
