Learning How to Learn Languages
Learning a foreign language is not limited to attending your classes regularly. Even if having a teacher who supports and guides you constantly during your learning process is extremely important, some complementary strategies will help you achieve your goals. That is why I would like to discuss the book "Learning How to Learn Languages," written by linguist Keli Yerian, a professor at the University of Oregon, in collaboration with Bibi Halima, Faith Adler, Logan Fisher, Cameron Keaton, Addy Orsi, and Abhay Pawar. This 7-chapter book helps us demystify the process of learning a foreign language. On this occasion, we will focus on the first chapter of the book, entitled "The Secrets of Language Learning."
Learning a foreign language is not limited to attending your classes regularly. Even if having a teacher who supports and guides you constantly during your learning process is extremely important, some complementary strategies will help you achieve your goals. That is why I would like to discuss the book "Learning How to Learn Languages," written by linguist Keli Yerian, a professor at the University of Oregon, in collaboration with Bibi Halima, Faith Adler, Logan Fisher, Cameron Keaton, Addy Orsi, and Abhay Pawar. This 7-chapter book helps us demystify the process of learning a foreign language. On this occasion, we will focus on the first chapter of the book, entitled "The Secrets of Language Learning."
🧠1. Learning languages does not require perfection
Learning a language is not like passing an exam, nor does it require being "perfect".
Using a language imperfectly (even if you make mistakes) can be just as successful as long as you manage to communicate effectively.
The important thing is practice, not perfection: "Practice makes you proficient".
💬2. Language and communication are not the same thing
Communication extends beyond language, encompassing gestures, expressions, tone of voice, context, and relationships.
You can communicate without knowing a language well, and sometimes not even using words.
Examples, such as saying "I'm fine" with a contrary tone or body language, show how the message extends beyond words.
🗣️ 3. Language is an action (languaging)
Language is not only a system or a tool (noun), it is also something we do (verb).
Through language, we act: we invite, we ask, we affirm identity, and so on.
"Languaging" is creating social realities and constructing personal, cultural, political, and religious identities.
💡 4. Myths about language learning
Common false myths:
Only children can learn a language well.
Some languages are "more difficult" or "more logical" than others.
There is a single correct way to speak a language.
Only native speakers are the "real experts".
These myths come from linguistic ideologies that can limit our learning.
🌍 5. Linguistic ideologies
These are beliefs about languages that often have no basis in fact, but influence how we value them.
Examples: judging someone by their accent or dialect, thinking that one language is more prestigious than another.
They can also be positive if they promote respect for linguistic diversity, as in projects aimed at preserving indigenous languages.
🧬 6. Aptitude vs. motivation
There is no such thing as a language "gene". Some people have greater facility (aptitude), but the most important thing is motivation.
Intrinsic motivation (learning for pleasure or personal interest) usually gives better results than extrinsic motivation (learning for obligation or reward).
You can motivate yourself with friends who share the same language, culture, food, music, and familiar history, among other things.
🎯7. Growth mindset
Believe in your ability to learn and improve.
Mistakes are not failures, but steps in the process.
Having a "fixed mindset" (thinking you cannot improve) limits your learning.
You learn language through time, practice, support, and by allowing yourself to make mistakes.
🧭 8. How do you make learning a meaningful journey?
Find a personal metaphor for your journey (e.g., learning a language is like exploring a city or playing the violin).
Celebrate each step, not just the end goal.
Focus on communication, not just rules.
Believe in yourself: there is no one way to learn a language, but there are many ways to enjoy it.
✅ Conclusion
Learning languages is not a matter of perfection or natural talent. It is a human, creative, and social journey. With motivation, a positive mindset, and an openness to communicate with what you have, you can make it happen. Your language journey begins when you believe you can.
Did you find this information helpful? If so, don't miss the summary of the second chapter of the book "Learning How to Learn Languages," coming soon.