by Emily Ser

Created on: March 22, 2007   Last Updated: May 02, 2007

Auditory learners, those who learn by listening, have a bit of an advantage when it comes to learning a foreign language. That is, if their foremost purpose it to be able to speak the language rather than read it.

Auditory learners are likely to benefit from language tapes/CDs. There are many options out there, including a program called "Learn Anywhere." The program is a small box, about the size of a pack of cigarettes, which holds all the language data and acts as the player. Just plug in your headphones. These programs are great for people with a commute to and from work or students on the go, though if you're on a bus and start spouting random Cantonese phrases you may get a few looks. By using language tapes/CDs you learn vocabulary and pronunciation, and get to work on your accent.

If you regularly come into contact with a person who speaks the language you are trying to learn, try practicing with that person. For instance, if you are trying to learn Spanish and your best friend's brother is fluent, use him as your "Spanish friend." Speak only Spanish to him and ask him to do the same for you. If the person is, say, your roommate, arrange certain evenings each week when you will only speak Spanish in each other's presence.

If you are a current college student, especially on a large campus, you will find that there is a plethora of student organization divided by ethnicity. Ex: Asian American Student Organization, Hispanic American Student Union. They are not exclusive clubs. You are usually welcome to attend meetings, though you may feel out of place at first. People want others to understand their culture and the fact that you are making an effort may endear you to many native speakers of your chosen foreign language.

If you don't have readily available contact with a speaker of the foreign language, try immersing yourself in a different way. For example, if you want to learn Italian, start listening to music with Italian lyrics. One you have memorized the sequence of words, look up their meanings a few at a time until you understand the songs. Movies are also a great way. Choose a movie you are familiar with if possible. Turn on the English subtitles for assistance and listen to the actors (or dubbed voices) speak. If you watch the same movies over and over you will surely begin to become familiar with the most necessary phrases, and a few off-the-wall ones, as well.

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