However, the journey of language learning can be challenging, requiring discipline, persistence and the right strategies.
One of the best experiences we have in life is getting to know different cultures, whether through the internet or by travelling to another place. For that, it is important that you know the language to communicate and have the opportunity to connect more easily with people coming from this new place you want to meet.
Situation in Brazil
In Brazil, where I was born and where I live, we have a low percentage of people who speak other languages. For example, currently only 1% of the population speaks English according to the British Council.
This is worrying because, according to scholars, all indications are that people who speak more than one language develop better multitasking skills, have a better memory, make decisions more quickly and have a greater capacity for observation.
For the purpose of this article, I have put together some tips that helped me to learn other languages. But it is important to note that each person has his or her own process and pace.
Define your goals
The first crucial step is to define your goals clearly. What do you want to achieve by learning the language? Communicate with native speakers on international trips? Read books and watch films in the original language? Improve your chances in the job market?
Having clear goals will help you direct your studies and keep you motivated. Choose the right learning materials, such as books, apps, online or face-to-face courses according to your goal.
Immerse yourself in the language
Immersion in the language is essential for effective learning. Create an environment conducive to constant contact with the language. Listen to music, podcasts and audio books in your target language. You can also watch films, series and TV programmes subtitled or dubbed into the original language. Read books, newspapers and magazines in the language you are learning to also expand your vocabulary naturally.
For me, having daily contact with the language was one of the best strategies to learn more quickly, because many times we have difficulties interacting when we don’t live with the language we want to learn.
Besides that, I love to travel, so I learned a lot of Spanish on the trips I made in Latin America, practising it and practising it, with different people from different countries.
Actively practise speaking
The best way to improve your speaking skills is to actively practice. Converse with native speakers whenever possible. Participate in online or face-to-face conversation groups. Use language exchange apps to find conversation partners. Don’t be afraid to make mistakes – they are part of the learning process.
Join online courses with native speakers and people who, like you, are learning.
In-house, Universitas has several options for courses in Spanish, Portuguese and English. In addition to Dexway, Telefónica’s programme for employees to study languages, you can complete your language training in a very effective and enjoyable way.
Train your knowledge of grammar
Grammar provides the basic structure for the language, so it is interesting that you know some rules, mainly the most used ones, so that you can feel more confident when speaking or reading in the language.
Don’t worry about mastering all the grammar rules straight away, but concentrate on the rules that are most relevant to basic communication, because what matters is getting started.
Be patient and persistent
Learning a language takes time, effort and dedication. It is important to stay motivated throughout the process. Celebrate your achievements, no matter how small. Reward yourself for reaching your goals. Find ways to make learning fun and interesting.
Learning a language takes time and persistence. Don’t be discouraged if you encounter difficulties along the way – it’s even interesting to meet people who study other languages to share those difficulties and understand how they deal with their problems along the way. Keep practising regularly and you will reach your goals.
During the two times I went through the process of learning a new language, I learned a lot about myself and my way of studying. It is also important to remember that we, bilingual people, do not stop studying that language because, just like our mother tongue, we are constantly learning.
Remember: learning a new language is an enriching and rewarding journey that opens up a world of possibilities. Enjoy the process!
