by Sarah Salas

Created on: February 20, 2009

There are several ways to go about learning Spanish. Unfortunately, many people who try to learn Spanish end up frustrated. One of the most important things you can do before you get started is figure out your learning style. There are tons of sites online that have free tests (http://www.learning-styles-online.com/inventory/ has a great free test).

Once you know what kind of learner you are, there are lots of options available to you.

Visual Learners

Visual learners learn best through pictures, drawings and diagrams. You would do well learning from watching television. Start with children's shows in Spanish, and work your way up to news and telenovas as your Spanish improves. If you want a more formal style of learning, look into immersion programs such as Rosetta Stone that shows pictures and states or writes the word in Spanish with no English translation.

Auditory Learners

Auditory learners like to learn through hearing. Spanish classes with focuses on lectures can be a good option for these learners. Spanish Language CD's and Spanish music are also great choices for these learners. There are lots of free online Spanish radio stations. Both Fluez and Visuallink Spanish are good choices for the auditory learner.

Verbal Learners

Ideally this type of learner learns best from conversations with Spanish speakers. Finding a Spanish tutor can make learning much easy for auditory learners. They also like to read and write, so immersing themselves in Spanish books and magazines will be a big help. Open learn has an interesting free language course that could be a good tool for beginners here: http://openlearn.open.ac.uk/course/view.php?id=2439

P hysical Learners

Physical learners like to learn by doing. Lectures and sitting in front of a computer would not be attractive options for these learners. Short lessons on a portable device like an Ipod are good choices, so these learners can learn on the go. Learning vacations to Spanish speaking locations can be good too. Acceleratedlearning.com is a good program for physical learners.

Logical Learners

These are the learners who love the rules. Vocabulary can be a bit of a struggle, but these learners generally have no trouble with verb conjugations. These learners should look for highly organized language courses that stress laws and rules. For vocabulary help look for a program that uses mnemonic devices or word associations. College courses (on and off line) are an excellent choice for these learners

Social Learners

The social learner learns by interacting with others. Conversational practice, group learning and games are the best way for this learner. A Spanish speaking friend or a good tutor can be tremendous help too. These learners would do well to avoid textbook or lecture learning.

Solitary Learners

Solitary learners need quiet and space for conversation. These learners learn well from books and magazines. Online courses and CD courses such as Fluenz Spanish work well for these learners, allowing them to learn at their own pace in the privacy of their home.

No matter what your learning style, there is a way for you to learn Spanish. Investigate free resources, and be sure to check out reviews thoroughly for anything you are paying for. Have fun and enjoy your new language!

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