Want to learn a new language?
Proverb “The limits of my language mean the limits of my World.”
—Ludwig Wittgenstein
Languages are like colours. The more you can see, the more exciting life can be. The question is, how can you learn a language without the stress that comes from learning?
Think systematically.
- Engage in passive learning. As kids we first learn the alphabet by singing it. Once we can sing it, we then learn its visual representation. This means start following/watching/listening to content on TikTok, Instagram, YouTube, Spotify, Pinterest, Reddit, Netflix (subtitles) or any other platforms you use that features the language. Continue about your day and watch as your brain passively learns new concepts. Familiarise your self with the definitions of certain words. For example, look at the dictionary of said language.
- Listen to audiobooks, YouTube videos, read a book, do an online course (coursera, udemy), hire a tutor or attend a class. This is considered active learning.
- Engage in activities that invite the exercise of unconscious competence. Examples include speaking with those who speak the language in a casual setting, visiting the country that speaks this language, changing the language on your phone/laptop to said language, watching shows/movies that are made in the language.
Summary
Step 1 > Preparing the ground for which you will plant a seed. Your brain will establish axioms of understanding that will continue to develop. In neuroscience this is known as neuroplasticity.
Step 2> Planting the seed that will soon grow. Now that neural connections about the topic have been established, you brain is now ready to understand the visual representation of said language. Step two allows the brain to start thinking pragmatically and engage at a level of conscious competence.
Step 3> The seed is developing its roots in the ground and stretching its capabilities. The third step is all about putting the brain in a position of unconscious competence that will allow you to master the language.
Will trying these steps open your mind to a new world?