Choosing a Language Course

Source: Daniel Colegate, Postgraduate Toolbox, Added By:

If you have decided to learn a new language then you must choose the best learning method for you. This method will be defined by many elements including your own learning style, time commitments and cost, but even more important than these is the reason that you have decided to learn a new language to begin with.
If you only hoping to speak a few words while on holiday then you won’t need to learn very much of the written language, but you will need reasonable oral communication skills. Likewise, if you want to keep in touch with a foreign friend or colleague in letters then you will need good written skills. However, if you want to learn the language for academic or research purposes then you will need to develop a much more complete grasp of the language, including the vocabulary associated with your field. You will need a focused range of vocabulary, and will need to be able to understand and communicate orally, and to be able to compose formal letters and written communications.

Of course, you may wish to learn a language for a range of reasons. If you're interested in a fully enriching language experience and in truly learning about the life and culture of other peoples, then you'll want to find a course that gives you the opportunity to jump in full-force and to develop a complete range of skills.

What is your learning style?
Once you've identified what kind of language skills you'd like to develop, you need to consider what type of learner you are. Do you tend to be self-motivated and learn material well independently? Or do you need the structure of a formal course with frequent homework assignments to keep you on task? Do you prefer daily contact with an instructor who guides you through the material or are you comfortable working through material yourself with the instructor as a resource for answering occasional questions? Do you tend to absorb material well by hearing it or listening to it or do you need to see the material in written form before you can grasp it?

It's important to keep in mind that just because you are weaker in one skill area does not mean that you should ignore developing it. If you seem to have difficulties with listening comprehension, for example, the only way you can improve that ability is to practice it. The key is identifying your strengths and using them to buttress your weaknesses while working on improving in the areas where you need it most.

Learn more about types of Language courses.

Tags: Language

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