Top Posts

Sep 28, 2011

Brainwave Entrainment In Foreign Language Learning

Research has found that the ideal state for learning is when the brain is in a relaxed, but aware state. At this point the brainwaves run at about 8 to 12 cycles per seconds and this is called the alpha state. Alpha frequencies are found to be useful for learning purposes in many ways. Research results reveal that in a relaxed state of mind learners memorize new words more easily. When using soothing sounds with brainwave entrainment technology that stimulates alpha brain waves, learners will be more relaxed and it will help them to absorb new information more easily.In ordinary awareness everything your hear, read or learn is filtered through short term memory and analytical processes and much of it never reaches long term memory.

With brainwave entrainment you can learn and remember things with much less repetition because the brainwave entrainment induces relaxed state of awareness where learning and memory functions are greatly increased. In this brainwave state new words and phrases you hear go straight into long term memory which is where language is stored.The whole-brain language instruction, for example, enhances the learning experience with soothing music, brainwave entrainment and colors. Teachers play music while reading definitions of the new words, leaving time for listeners to draw images of the words or they use guided meditation to build a relaxed state containing memories of success before the listeners hear the definitions again. Research results have confirmed that in a relaxed state of mind you will memorize new words more easily. When using soothing sounds with brainwave entrainment technology that stimulates your alpha brain waves, you will be more relaxed and it will help you to absorb new information much easily.

As lower brainwaves increase the ability to think in a creative manner, this puts the brain into a creative mode of thinking.Researchers have found that certain music types (e.g. baroque music) ease the brainwaves into the relaxed 'alpha state' that is ideal for learning. Guiding the brain into a specific frequency is aided by computer generated rhythmic pulses of sound, also called isochronic tones, so the brain can synchronize to a desired frequency. Guiding the brain to faster or higher frequencies has been shown to stir creativity and motivation while switching to lower or deeper frequencies can induce states of relaxation and calm. The use of music in the classroom can make the entire learning process more enjoyable and can stimulate "right" brain learning.

Sep 27, 2011

Foreign Language Learning Is a Cultural Immersion

We are now living in am era of globalization, each country and culture has turn out to be connected regardless of whether it is in enterprise, education and other fields. There is a need to be knowledgeable, not in just our local tongue, but also in other languages. It has be come a necessity to be able to be a part of the community, get greater career opportunities, and therefore succeed.There are distinct approaches on how we can enhance our abilities of acquiring languages. Diverse aides like CDs, DVDs, books, dictionaries and magazines can be bought quickly in bookstores.

But professionals have agreed that the most critical approach is by submerging ourselves of the language’s culture.There are several experts who agree that the greatest way and most efficient strategy of teaching language would be what is referred to as as “language immersion.” Reading grammar and vocabulary books are indeed critical in order to enhance language understanding. But it is practice and exposure that you would uncover most useful when studying a new language. For example, if you would go abroad and live there, then it would be inevitable that you would pick up the language.

You are exposed to different aspects of culture that uses the language, like television, movies, radio, restaurants, museums, transportation and other public locations.Language immersion will maintain learning language balanced. Language is something reflected by the people’s culture, therefore, to comprehend the language it would be finest to comprehend the ideas and concepts behind it by immersing in the culture. Aside from that, it keeps learning interactive and enjoyable. You do not have to pour over boring texts for hours and still unable to retain anything.Language immersion does not mean you would have to Spain to learn Spanish and go to France and fluently speak French. There are distinct approaches to immerse ourselves in other cultures with out spending too a lot on the airfare.

* You could begin by renting foreign films and listening to various radio programmes making use of the language of your interest. For example, if you want to understand how to speak Spanish, then telenovelas would be a wonderful way to get acquainted with the language. Telenovelas play a significant role in Latin America’s pop culture. There are teachers who would testify that students would get involved in the dramas that they do not even realize that they are slowly enhancing their Spanish abilities.

* Foreign films are also excellent avenues for language immersion. They are fascinating, simple to access and of course in the language that you would like to learn.

* If you are not a big fan of foreign dramas and films, then you could definitely understand a lot from foreign sports. You could find out from the announcers and fans, just like in drama, you get involved with the sports that you keep track of it and gradually understanding what those announcers are in fact reporting.

* Radio has played a major role in language acquisition. There are on-line radios from diverse parts of the globe which you can listen to. You may well locate it tough in the beginning but later on, you will begin to identify more and more words and ultimately learn the language.

* Eating in foreign restaurants would also permit you to get acquainted to foreign dishes and how they were pronounced. Some restaurants would even consist of foreign performances whilst dining.Studying different languages could be accomplished in ways that you do not have to spend too a lot or leave the country.

 But if you feel that travelling will increase your expertise and education, then go ahead. There are many options that you could choose from, make positive that you will be picking out the most practical.

Sep 26, 2011

Analyze English inside UK For language learning

This really is gonna inevitably cause you to rapidly educate yourself on the words or at least , enhance what you already know just . You can find various on-line supplementary substance to help you as you finish the British scientific studies throughout Great britain . You will find not only syntax physical exercises and also idioms which have been popular inside the English words .Idioms such as ?I?m consequently starving I can consume a horse?
 along with ?It?s raining kittens and cats and dogs? will be just a few brand new idioms one can learn inside your English classes . Besides idioms, you will also be exposed to many new lessons throughout Language . For instance , your alphabet, animal names , learning game titles , beautifully constructed wording , tune lyrics as well as amounts . Towards the end of your British course , you may be supposed to discover ways to talk within simple content which have been grammatically proper and also flawlessly obvious .You are furthermore destined to be likely to understand how to go through road directions , publications , publications , papers and recognize broadcast tv that happen to be just about all verbal inside Uk words .
For this reason , advisable may be to never expose yourself to your own personal ancient language at this point over time . Experts recommend which you observe simply English-speaking exhibits , go through simply British newspapers as well as mags along with meet with people who are fluent . estudiar ingles en el extranjeroThis is why final decision which is to analyze English in UK is a great idea mainly because it goes from your ancient surroundings as well as sets anyone in a position exactly where rapid understanding is necessary . Not only will you always be immersed in a very country as their native language is British , additionally , you will be exposed to a wonderful culture which includes helped designed the around the globe . For this reason , numerous individuals who’re in the UK to master English do start off creating your own blog relating their encounters you could access on the web .

Sep 25, 2011

Learn Chinese Calligraphy

Of the four major disciplines of Chinese literati, calligraphy is regarded as the most elite and sophisticated of the skills; others being musical instruments, painting and board games. Chinese calligraphy is popular across the globe because of the beauty which is reflected from its precisely crafted pattern of characters. Although many calligraphers in China have devoted their entire lives for the love of calligraphy but the names of few pioneers still top the list and even today, the techniques and unique styles of ancient calligraphy invented by them are practiced religiously.
Ouyang Xun, Yan Zhengqing and Wang Xizhi were the three calligraphers who reached the realms of calligraphy; and are still highly respected for the contribution they made towards the furtherance of this art.How much time it takes to learn Chinese Calligraphy?The answer to first question is that in order to learn Chinese calligraphy, having a good know how of Chinese language is not necessary however, the knowledge of Chinese culture is a requisite. This is because calligraphy is a substantial part of Chinese culture and if some one wants to acquire this outstanding skill of penmanship, he must possess plenty noesis about how calligraphy originated and how it evolved in each period of Chinese dynasty.The answer to second question lies in the fact that calligraphy or the art of penmanship like any other form of art, cannot be learned overnight.
Before actually starting how to design characters on the paper, one must thoroughly memorize the styles, methods and tools used; which is quite time consuming. This does not mean that you will be spending decades in building the foundation of calligraphy; if you consistently give a few hours to learning the basics, after three to four weeks time, you will be all geared up to actually start discovering the miracles of your handwriting. Websites based on the theme of learning calligraphy online can also help greatly in saving energy and time.The secret of becoming an expert calligraphist is directly linked to practice. Yes, practice is what results in extraordinary pieces of calligraphy. And don’t forget to add the topping of patience and desire, without which your success pie of calligraphy would be imperfect. The more effort and time you invest in getting the hang of calligraphy, the more proficient you will become in creating masterworks; and once calligraphy starts running in your blood, you can do marvels.

Sep 23, 2011

Language Learning For Better Career

However, it is important not to become discouraged. Expect the ups and downs to come as you learn your new language. This is only normal. And when you finally do conquer the obstacles and can speak clearly in a second language, all that frustration will turn into excitement. So stick with it. Don't give up. Below are some pointers that will help you stay focused and encouraged as you move towards fluency in your new tongue.
• Set realistic expectations - Don't expect to learn everything you need to be fluent your first day. You will learn your second language like you did your first - over time and with consistent effort. Expect to make mistakes along the way. This is only natural. Ads by Google
• Take it slow and in managable portions. Your brain operates just like a computer. It loads new information and dumps old information to make room for the new. Like a computer, your brain can only hold so much data before it starts to slow down and experience problems.
• Vocabulary is key. Don't get me wrong, learning to structure your sentences is very important, and you will eventually get there. But vocabulary words are the building blocks of your new language. So that's where you'll want to start. If you don't have the option of living in a foreign country to learn your new language (which makes things much easier), write your vocabulary words down on 3x5 flash cards. As best you can during your workday, test yourself during breaks. Even if you already know some of your words, continue to test yourself again and again right along with the new ones. The best way to learn something new like this is to repeat it again and again. That way, you'll never lose it.
Learning a foreign language isn't just about mindless drills and taking written tests. You'll know you're fluent when you can interact with other people in the new language. You want to be able to communicate and be understood by natives. That's your goal. Not only that, but you you also need to be able to convey your thoughts and understand the thoughts of other people in your target tongue.
Keep these tips (and others from our site) in mind as you learn your new language. Pretty soon you'll be thinking and even dreaming in it. When you do, you'll open doors to a much more rewarding career and life as you gain insight and understanding of a culture other than your own.
  
 

Sep 22, 2011

Why Do People Fail To Learn Lnguage

I am a firm proponent of intensive language courses to give people a strong start in their language learning, but I have often seen expatriates arrive in a country after their intensive course and drop language study on the grounds that they are now surrounded by the language on a daily basis at work, and so further study is unnecessary. In most cases, this is the end of any real progress towards fluency.People fail to learn the language because they are surrounded by local staff who want to improve their English by using it as much as possible. This is fine, if you are practicing their language in other contexts, but you still want to be able to talk to the rest of your staff who don't speak English or you will find that the English speakers act as gate-keepers and filter the information you receive.

 Therefore you need to make sure that you are studying and practicing regularly so that you continue to make progress. Arranging a language tutor 2-3 times per week is the best way to do this as you are accountable, and unlikely to put it off just because you are tired or busy. It is also a good way to cultivate relationships outside the office.Since most large cities also have an English-speaking community you can probably meet your social needs without ever learning the local language unless you make an effort to do so, and reach out and make friends in the local community.

This can be easier in some cultures than in others, but it is your responsibility to make sure that language is not the main barrier to such relationships, and the best way to do this is to continue with some regular formal language study, or another planned activity that takes you out of the expatriate community.I recommend that expatriates find a language tutor and continue to meet with them two or three times a week for several months even though they may feel too busy to do so.

 Even people who are naturally gifted at languages will benefit from this, and the rest of us really need it if we are not to be content with just getting by in the local language. Although you will often find senior staff who speak English it is quite embarrassing after several months, or years, to have to have a translator with you at all times, and if you are mixing with government officials you don't want to speak like a pre-schooler.Not only does learning the language give you insight into the culture and enrich your life, but it also gives you a much greater understanding of other people's lives and values.

Sep 21, 2011

5 Tips to Start Learning a Foreign Language

1. BE REALIST YET OPTIMISTIC - Anyone can learn a foreign language, but not everyone learns as quickly as the next. Set goals for yourself, and evaluate how you learn best so that you can have a realistic plan of attack to start learning your language of interest.

2. KEEP IT SIMPLE - Just like a child learning English for the first time you don't start by learning how to say complicated medical terms. Get a good dictionary that has explanations for common words and their idiomatic uses. There are several great reference dictionaries out there. I recommend Harper Collins Dictionaries or Larousse.

There is a great book that approaches learning vocabulary by subjects which is a great learning method. The book is Master "insert language" Vocabulary a Thematic Approach.Start by learning basic vocabulary and common phrases. Then you can practice making your own sentences. Think about things that you say everyday in English but probably don't think about and make list. Then start learning these essential conversational pieces.

3. BE A COPY CAT - Then you can practice making your own sentences. Think about things that you say everyday in English but probably don't think about and make list. Then start learning these essential conversational pieces.You could buy some language learning software or CDs but I recommend searching for popular movies or books on tape that are in your language of interest. Play a short portion and try and understand as much as possible and then play it over and over again.

 As you do this mimic what each person says. Focus on pronunciation and accent. This will help you train your ear and help you get used to different vocal patterns and mouth movements that make speaking a different language difficult and intimidating. This will allow you to learn from natives and prepare for you to do the real thing.

4. LOOK FOR PATTERNS - When you start to learn more complex grammatical concepts you want to try and simplify every idea. You don't need to know the fine details or to be able to make a valid argument regarding the value of prepositions.Conjugations - Especially in Latin languages there are patterns for every conjugation. Learn and memorize patterns of 5 verbs and then apply all of the same patterns to all of the other verbs that you learn. Some people will look at conjugations and feel overwhelmed and maybe even give up, but conjugations are simple if you take the time to learn and memorize the patterns that can be applied to all verbs.

Note: This principle is not perfect because there are exceptions and irregular verbs that do not follow the regular patterns, but looking for patterns is a very efficient toolThen you can practice making your own sentences. Think about things that you say everyday in English but probably don't think about and make list. Then start learning these essential conversational pieces.Sounds - When you start focusing on pronunciation again you want to look for patterns. Break each word into syllables and enunciate each one.

 Look for groups of letters that make specific sounds when grouped and then you will be able to recognize them in new words, large complex words. This will allow you to break the words down to smaller parts that are not as difficult to sound out. Once you do this start saying the word slowly focusing on each syllable. As you become comfortable begin saying the word at a normal speed. Don't fall into the pitfall of trying to say words at the speed a native would speak. This will only hurt you in the long run. Others will understand that you are learning and will appreciate the fact that you are speaking correctly and clearly. Remember the tortoise wins the race.

5. READ OUT LOUD - This is an essential step in learning to speak any language. This will allow you to use all of the previous mentioned techniques. I recommend starting with easy books like comics or books for 8 - 12 yr olds. For example if you are trying to learn Spanish I recommend finding a comic that you are familiar with like Garfield in Spanish and reading it. The sentences are simple straight forward and easy to translate.

These books are great because they are not written to be difficult literary masterpieces and they are very conversational. Which is meets our goal of learning to speak the language in a natural setting.First, keep a dictionary close by because you will most likely need to look up words. By reading out loud you will learn new vocabulary for specific situations and see how it is used in real life.Secondly this is a great opportunity to speak the language. Practice reading the words slowly and clearly breaking them up into syllables if necessary.

By reading out loud you will be able to get used to making the new sounds, using muscles in new ways that is associated with a new language without the pressure of having others around you.Last, you will start to learn new words, recognize words you already know which will help you remember them, and you will learn new sayings and recognize patterns in the language.