Tips
Here are some language learning tips I’d like to share with other aspiring polyglots. These are in no particular order of importance and new tips will be added on occasion.
Free newspapers - Depending on where you live, you might be able to find free newspapers in your target language, especially if you’re living abroad or live in a bustling metropolis. Commuters in the Netherlands can enjoy a selection of free daily newspapers (such as the Metro and Spits), which are available at most train stations. I often read a newspaper on my way to work and find it an excellent way to cram in some language study into a busy day’s schedule. My Dutch reading skills have improved enormously over the last two years thanks to this daily habit.
Carry a notebook - I often carry a little notebook in my bag so that I can jot down any new words and expressions I may come across. This is a good way for me to expand my vocabulary and gives me something interesting to browse through when I have nothing else to do. It might be a good idea to make a note about the context that the new word or phrase was used in so that you can learn how to use that word or phrase yourself.
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1.
The Arabic Student | January 24, 2009 at 10:48 pm
I make sure that when I’m in my car I only have Arabic going. This will either be music or podcasts. All bit of exposure you can get will better your language skills over time.
2.
Kelly | January 24, 2009 at 11:57 pm
I do the same thing with Mandarin and Japanese. I listen to online radio or podcasts while I’m at work as it’s a great way to immerse myself in the languages without disrupting my work. Since I don’t live in China or Japan, this is the only way I can hear the languages on a daily basis.
3.
Julio Pereira | March 4, 2009 at 6:05 pm
Very interesting blog!! I got more inspired to keep on studying Dutch as I try to improve my French and Spanish.
In my opinion the best time to study is when one is on the train or bus since one can immerse oneself by listening to podcasts(best thing ever for studying) or reading language textbooks. I learned Dutch and Chinese practically on the train since I can’t concentrate on my studies when I’m at home.
Tot ziens!!
p.s I would like to have permission to put a link to your blog
4.
Kelly | March 8, 2009 at 2:00 pm
Hi Julio,
I’ve added a link to your blog. I’m learning Japanese (slowly but surely) so it looked like it might come in handy for my own studies.
Podcasts are indeed a great way to fit in some language study into a busy day’s schedule. My only problem is that I always end up sitting next to someone who insists on spending the entire trip talking on their mobile phone (at the top of their voice, no less). I need to invest in some noise-cancelling headphones…