If an adult fails to learn a foreign language (and most do), most of us assume they simply don’t study hard enough or just aren’t good at languages. It’s certainly true that some learners are lazy, and given the same methods, certain folks tend to pick up languages faster than others. But neither of these is the real issue; both are but symptoms of the underlying problem: 1) Crappy Methods, 2) Crappy Materials, and 3) Crappy Attitudes.
In my interview with Jason West, the creator of English Out There, we discuss the weaknesses of traditional English schools, methodologies, and materials, and how his approach aims to overcome them. I especially enjoyed his effective, no-nonsense approach to language learning, his efforts to bridge the gap between traditional classroom-based learning and independent study, and his willingness to share before-and-after speech samples of his students.
The Polyglot Project, a collection of language learning tips from polyglots and language enthusiasts across the globe (including yours truly), is now available as both a physical book on Amazon and as a free PDF download. This tome of language awesomeness contains over 500 pages of language learning goodness from 43 authors!
More and more, it is becoming extremely beneficial to know a foreign language in today’s tough job market. Any kind of edge helps now more than ever in this economy, and one of the most sought-after and respected skills that can give you the upper hand is knowing a foreign language.
You often hear people say that certain words are “difficult”, but I don’t think this word applies to languages. Instead, I suggest you use the word “unfamiliar” instead. Read on to see why…
No spam. No BS. Just useful language learning goodness. Become an Insider now (it's free!) and instantly get 12 PDF guides:
1) Quick Start Guide
2) Learn the Natural Way
3) Japanese 1-pager
4) Top 500 Japanese Words
5) Top 500 Kanji
6) Chinese 1-pager
7) Spanish 1-pager
8) Top 500 Spanish Words
9) French 1-pager
10) German 1-pager
11) Portuguese 1-pager
12) Russian 1-pager
Howdy language lovers! I’m John Fotheringham, an author, linguist, vagabond, entrepreneur, and full-time silly goose. I have been learning and teaching languages for over a decade and have seen first-hand what works and what doesn’t. The Language Mastery site, podcast, and guides provide adult learners the tips, tools, and tech needed to create fun, engaging, immersive environments no matter where in the world one happens to live.