How to learn a language

A lot of people have trouble with languages, and think they're too difficult for them. They aren't easy to learn, but I think everyone has it within them to learn another language.

If you're able, going to a foreign country and immersing yourself in the language is the best method, I've come to learn. If you're really determined and able, go abroad.

But this isn't the only way to go about it, and for most people learning a language isn't that pressing a need. I thought I'd share what I've found out for those that want to learn without needing to travel.

Right now I'm learning Italian before I travel to Italy for vacation (its easier for me, as its very close to Spanish and French). I'm using a program called Pimsleur. I highly recommend this. I've done some research and it seems to be one of the better ones, and is also fairly easy to find on the internet.

It was originally a series of audio cassettes, but I just downloaded it (stole it) from the internet and put the MP3 files on my iPod. You're supposed to do one half hour lesson each day. You don't need to read anything while doing it, so you can do it while washing dishes or doing laundry, etc.

Words are explained to you, and you repeat after a native instructors voice. They make it easy to master the pronunciation. As you learn a few things, the instructor asks you how to say certain words and phrases. You are gradually given new vocabulary, and start having conversations with the native speakers on the recording. Because you have to say everything out loud first before it is corrected, you remember things very well. The program doesn't really allow you to forget anything, because you're constantly using the words, whereas you quickly forget things from a vocabulary list.

Their focus is on oral, not written, but oral is the most important part of a language, at least at first. You can pick up reading using another program once you know how to pronounce things, but otherwise it may just screw you up, because you can develop anglicized pronunciation.

We'll see how the results are when I get to Italy, but I think I'll be able to communicate fairly well. And the emphasis on pronunciation is very important. How you speak in a foreign language is crucial. Think of all the people you've met with lousy English accents, and how people react to that. I'd say the pimsleur course is useful even if someone wanted to improve pronunciation of a language they already know a bit of, such as French. You just have to make sure to repeat carefully, and always speak out loud.

The other excellent resource I have found is here. Someone has made available old courses used to train diplomats in the American foreign service. This also uses voice recordings of native speakers. The courses have a good reputation, and I believe they're quite effective, though I haven't used them yet myself (the italian audio recordings are missing). Best of all, they're free and easy to download available.

Anyway, both of these programs teach language in a structured way that encourages good pronunciation and rhythm. If you're interested in learning another language, or improving your French, they're an excellent starting point.

If you truly are interesting in learning a language, all you have to do is find 25-30 minutes each day. I think you'll be pleasantly surprised with the progress that you can make with these programs.