The methods and reasons for learning a language are as diverse as the languages of the world. Some of us who are second language learners are students whose study is structured by our classes and texts chosen to help us understand grammar and culture. Others live in a foreign country and have little instruction. Others have neither and listen to the latest foreign language CD as they commute to work, label all the furniture in a foreign language and buy a phrase book for some anticipated encounter with speakers of a different language. Whatever your current level or method learning, learning on one's own is an important part of developing bilingualism. I've decided that a fitting way to begin this blog, dedicated to discussing the resources, strategies and experience of learning a second language would be to collect some insights into effective independent language learning.
1. Motivation and Goals for Learning
One of the most important aspects of my learning Japanese was that I had something important to say and a great desire to say it and really no other way to come across without some language ability. Most undertakings' success can be traced to how much need there was and barring need, how much was a vertain outcome desired. Though motivations may vary, having a good reason or need, even if you need to fabricate it a little, will accelerate learning. For this reason, many foreign language programs create a false environment. For example, "this room of the house or this classroom is Little Italy, let's all act accordingly," or so on. Nothing, however, really fosters language like an authentic need to communicate. So in fabricating necessity, the more real, the more effective.
Keeping your motivation in mind before study sessions or perhaps having a clear goal for a week, not only helps us hang in there, but allows us to measure our progress. An example might be, "At the end of this week, I will be able to write the whole alphabet," etc. Don't be vague or half-hearted. This is the difference between those who make progress in a language and those who settle for just being understood, or say, "I'm learning Spanish" but can't find a time or place to use it. Often teachers or an upcoming situation may outline our goals for us or create that sense of need, but in between, it's important to be personally and deeply motivated to learn and able to give it shape through specific, measurable goals. What motivates you?
