Language Learning: Live the Language

In my last post, I wrote about how memorable experiences in a new language help us learn and retain the language. I suggested for those learning a new language, such as Spanish for foreigners in Mexico, that they find a teacher whose methods create those kinds of learning experiences.

Of course I am writing from Mexico and talking about Spanish, but all of the following ideas are applicable to learning any language, in just about any environment.

Finding the right kind of teacher is a good first step. Unfortunately, many American and Canadian expats here in Mexico comment that while they dutifully go to classes and study, it's hard to learn Spanish. Some conclude that they are too old or that their memory is no good. There are those who seem to find it difficult to make a satisfying amount progress, eventually give up studying, and limp along with a rudimentary vocabulary and basic phrases.

I think one reason for this is that many treat Spanish as a course, and not as an integral part of their lives. After Spanish class most students return home, where they proceed to watch English-language TV, read English newspapers, books and internet pages, watch English movies, and socialize primarily among other English-speaking people. Many expats in Mexico even go to English-speaking dentists and doctors, and hire English-speaking plumbers, electricians, handymen and household help. [They also often pay a stiff premium for needing these services in English, but that's a topic for another day.]

The best way to learn a new language is to make it part of the daily routine and incorporate it into life in as many ways as possible. Formally studying a language you would like to learn is important. But really learning the language requires that you use it, and use it a lot.

Here are a few suggestions for creating a richer Spanish-learning environment for yourself, no matter where you live and no matter what your learning goals may be.

Set the language preferences for your computer system and most-used applications to Spanish. Since you already understand how these work and probably utilize them almost instinctively, you already have built-in vocabulary support. As you use your computer, you will begin to notice and understand the terminology. The next time you go to an Internet cafe, computer store, or try to explain a problem to a technician in Spanish, you will be surprised how much easier it is to describe what you need or ask questions.

While you are at it, change the operating language of your cell phone and other devices that you regularly use. It's the same idea as with the computer. You can still send messages and communicate in English. Only the prompts and labels will be in Spanish.

Then, find a Spanish-language radio station that plays music you like (there are many streaming online if there are no broadcasts in your area). Listen to it, DJ's and other talk as well as music, every day. You don't have to listen attentively all of the time; just leave it on while you go about your day. Try to sing along. Watch Spanish television, a telenovela (soap opera) or something with action, even if you don't understand much of what the characters are saying. Rent or go to movies that are in Spanish.

Learning to hear a new language and distinguish phrases, words and chunks of words is a critical part of beginning to understand. As you learn to hear the spoken language, it will cease to sound so "fast," and individual words and phrases will begin to pop out of the blur of sound.

These are just a few proven ideas that speed up the language-learning process and make it easier and more fun. There is a lot more you can do. I'll publish more ideas in future posts.