The secrets of learning a new language | Lýdia Machová | TED

Summary

The speaker, a polyglot who learns a new language every two years, shares insights from meeting other polyglots to discover the secret to their language-learning success. They emphasize the importance of finding enjoyment in the learning process, using effective methods like spaced repetition, creating a learning system, and practicing patience. The speaker debunks the myth of a 'language gene,' illustrating that with the right approach, anyone can become fluent in multiple languages.

Takeaways

• 😀 Polyglots find unique and enjoyable ways to learn languages, making the process fun rather than a chore.
• 😊 The common factor among polyglots is their enjoyment of the language-learning process.
• 😁 Effective methods such as spaced repetition, using language learning apps, and engaging content are crucial for retaining vocabulary.
• 😃 Creating a systematic approach to language learning helps integrate it into daily routines without needing extra time.
• 😄 Patience and consistent practice are essential for achieving fluency, rather than expecting quick results.
• 😆 Polyglots often personalize their learning by using materials and methods that they find interesting, such as reading favorite books or watching TV shows in the target language.
• 😉 Speaking with native speakers from the start, even if it means making many mistakes, is a common method used by polyglots.
• 😊 Polyglots are not inherently more talented; they have found methods that work for them and enjoy the learning process.
• 😋 Language learning can be customized to fit individual preferences, such as using apps, self-talk, or creative methods like cooking with foreign recipes.
• 😇 Anyone can become a polyglot by finding enjoyable and effective methods, creating a system for learning, and being patient with their progress.

Q & A

How often does the speaker learn a new language?

The speaker learns a new language every two years.

How many languages is the speaker currently working on?

The speaker is currently working on their eighth language.

What common question do people ask the speaker?

People often ask the speaker, 'How do you do that? What's your secret?'

How did the speaker respond to the question about their secret for many years?

The speaker would respond, 'I don't know. I simply love learning languages.'

What motivated the speaker to investigate the methods of other polyglots?

People's dissatisfaction with the speaker's initial answer and their curiosity about why they couldn't achieve fluency motivated the speaker.

Where did the speaker decide to meet other polyglots?

The speaker decided to meet other polyglots at polyglot events organized around the world.

What method does Benny from Ireland use to learn languages?

Benny starts speaking from day one, using travel phrasebooks and having conversations with native speakers, even if he makes many mistakes.

What unique method did Lucas from Brazil use to learn Russian?

Lucas added a hundred random Russian speakers on Skype and initiated conversations by copying responses from one person to another.

What commonality did the speaker find among polyglots?

The commonality is that polyglots find ways to enjoy the language-learning process.

What are the three additional principles to achieve fluency in a language, according to the speaker?

The three additional principles are: using effective methods, creating a learning system, and having patience.