Language learning methods and approaches
10/28/24 • 20 min
We’re coming to the end of the first series of ‘Will I ever learn Chinese’. In these last two episodes, I am looking at language learning techniques and summarise my process of learning Chinese. In this episode, I’m looking at different approaches to teaching and learning languages and how these have changed over time. I’m looking at learner profiles and the different reasons for language learning. To me language learning is not just my work, a hobby, my research, but ultimately an act of peace, facilitating mutual understanding and embracing other cultures and worldviews.
We’re coming to the end of the first series of ‘Will I ever learn Chinese’. In these last two episodes, I am looking at language learning techniques and summarise my process of learning Chinese. In this episode, I’m looking at different approaches to teaching and learning languages and how these have changed over time. I’m looking at learner profiles and the different reasons for language learning. To me language learning is not just my work, a hobby, my research, but ultimately an act of peace, facilitating mutual understanding and embracing other cultures and worldviews.
Previous Episode
Language learning and linguistic fieldwork: the excitement of the puzzle
I love puzzles, be it crossword puzzles, jigsaw puzzles or the puzzle that is learning or analysing another language. My PhD thesis, for example, is a grammatical description of the small Amazonian indigenous language Mosetén. I was working with speakers of the language to record and then analyse the language and its structures. During that process, I learnt to speak Mosetén as well. I realised that I was using many techniques I had learned during my fieldwork in the Amazon when learning Chinese. Should we, perhaps, approach language learning from the perspective of linguistic fieldwork? Should researchers working on languages make an effort to learn those languages? This episode is a celebration of the wonder that is figuring out how a languages works, solving a gigantic puzzle.
Next Episode
How a linguist would learn a new language
In this final episode of ‘Will I ever learn Chinese’ I discuss how I would approach learning a new language in future, outlining the techniques, materials and approaches for different languages of the world. Then, I reflect back on my own learning of Chinese and what I would do differently. How would I advise other people to learn Chinese, based on my experience? How does a linguist learn languages?
Thank you all for listening to my podcast, giving me feedback and telling me about your language learning experiences! We have such a wonderful community of learners and I very much enjoy being a part of it. May your language learning be fun! 💜
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