Nostr Web Client

Had never heard of Pimsleur, but reading about their method it makes sense. At the heart of the Phases you describe in your initial post is the most efficient method of learning a new language: go live there for a time and don’t speak anything else (coupled with carrying a dictionary everywhere and 30-60 minutes a day of formal grammar study either solo or with a tutor).

Though for a formal method, Pimsleur’s description is the most convincing I have read. Agree that the gamified apps are probably a waste of time. I haven’t tried the “synthetic immersion” approach, consuming audio and video in that language from my native home though. I think for me it’s an access/ interest/ time issue. Traveling is much more fun :)

waxwing 4mo ago

Yeah you're advocating phase 3. It probably *is* the best for the vast majority of people, though as you note, some people can't physically do it.

And if you choose that option and speak a lot in the initial learning phases, you're going to end up with a lot of ossified errors, which may or may not matter.

Re: Pimsleur, I specifically advocate it for Phase 0, just the "phonetic architecture". Just learning to recognize and reproduce the most basic sounds. While also picking up survival level phrases.

Reply to this note

Please Login to reply.

Discussion

signoi 4mo ago

I think the ossified errors acquire during immersion learning (Phase 3) can be (largely) avoided by pushing your comprehension with a dictionary and daily tutoring or formalized self-study. That way your understanding progresses along with your comprehension and use, and you don’t end up inventing grammar to make do. It also helps to have started off with a foundation via some Phase 1 (academic study) +/- Phase 2 (media consumption).

Have you traveled much to learn Spanish, or have you had good success with the Phase 2 media consumption approach?

waxwing 4mo ago

I mostly am a phase 2 person, but, I live mostly in Spanish-speaking countries :) Just a function of my personality and lifestyle; if I were both younger and more outgoing, I'm sure I would be more just Phase 3: it definitely makes sense :)

waxwing 4mo ago

The ability to speak, every day, in real life, is obviously massively helpful, even if I don't do it as much as some others would.