Why We Struggle Learning Languages | Gabriel Wyner | TEDxNewBedford

Summary

The speaker debunks the myth that children are inherently better at learning languages than adults. Instead, he argues that adults have the advantage due to their ability to learn efficiently. He shares his personal journey of language learning, which began with struggles in school but led to success through immersive techniques and the use of spaced repetition systems. The speaker emphasizes the importance of connecting language learning to real-life experiences and emotions, which aids in memorization and fluency. His experiences with learning multiple languages demonstrate that with the right approach, anyone can become proficient in a new language.

Takeaways

• 🌟 The myth that children are naturally better at learning languages than adults is debunked; adults can outperform children in language learning with the right exposure and methods.
• 📚 The importance of language exposure is highlighted; a five-year-old French child has had significantly more exposure to the language than an adult learner.
• 🧠 Adults have cognitive advantages in learning languages, including better learning strategies and the ability to understand complex concepts.
• 👶 Children have some unique advantages in language learning, such as the ability to pick up on new language sounds between 6 to 12 months and fearlessness in communication.
• 🕰 The advantage of time is a significant factor for adults; with limited time, efficient learning methods are crucial for success in language acquisition.
• 📝 The speaker's personal journey with language learning demonstrates the ineffectiveness of traditional classroom methods for some learners.
• 📉 The use of immersive language programs, where the learner is restricted to only speaking the target language, can lead to rapid language acquisition.
• 🔥 The power of 'spaced repetition systems' in language learning is introduced as an efficient method for memorization and retention.
• 🌐 The speaker's experience with using images and stories to build vocabulary and understand grammar, instead of relying on direct translations, is shared.
• 📖 Creating a rich network of associations for each word and grammar rule helps in making the language stick in memory, as opposed to rote memorization.
• 🌐 The potential for anyone to learn a language efficiently is emphasized, with the right approach and without needing a 'language gene'.

Q & A

What is the myth about language learning that the speaker addresses?

The myth is that children are exceptionally good at learning languages and that this ability diminishes as we grow older.

Why do many people believe in the myth of children being better language learners?

People believe in this myth because they often experience learning a language for years and still struggle to speak it as fluently as a young native speaker who has never studied the language formally.

What is the key factor that the speaker suggests is often overlooked when comparing language learning abilities between adults and children?

The key factor is the amount of exposure to the language. Children have had thousands of hours of exposure, while adults typically have far less.

According to the speaker, who is better at learning languages, adults or children, and why?

Adults are better at learning languages because they are smarter, have learned how to learn, and can make more efficient use of their exposure to the language.

What are the three advantages that children have when learning a language, as mentioned by the speaker?

The three advantages are: 1) Children can hear sounds in new languages in a unique way during a specific age window. 2) They are fearless and willing to engage in conversations regardless of their vocabulary. 3) They have more time to spend learning a language.

What was the speaker's initial experience with learning Hebrew and Russian, and what conclusion did he draw from it?

The speaker studied Hebrew for seven years and Russian for five and a half years but only retained the ability to read the alphabets and a few words, leading him to conclude that language learning was not for him.

Why did the speaker decide to study opera and mechanical engineering simultaneously?

The speaker had a passion for both science and singing. He thought it would be unique and interesting to combine the study of opera with mechanical engineering.

What is the significance of the 'Moktor' story in the context of language learning?

The 'Moktor' story illustrates how memorable experiences can make language learning more effective. The speaker remembered the word 'Moktor' due to the strong sensory and emotional connections formed during the experience.

How did the speaker use spaced repetition systems to learn languages?

The speaker used spaced repetition systems with pictures and stories instead of direct translations. This method allowed him to create strong associations and memories that helped him retain vocabulary and grammar.

What was the outcome of the speaker's unconventional approach to learning French within a three-month period?

The speaker was able to achieve fluency in French, surprising the language school by performing at an advanced level instead of the intermediate level they initially expected.

What is the main takeaway from the speaker's language learning journey?

The main takeaway is that efficient language learning requires giving the language life by connecting every word and grammar rule to sensory experiences, images, emotions, and personal stories.