Learning a language might sound easy for some. Talking to foreigners, traveling abroad, reading English articles, memorizing or reciting vocabulary words or watching English movies are few things we can do to learn the language. However, are we truly learning it? Perhaps not.
The idea of learning has been overly misconceptualised by many. For instance, most of my students say they come to our training centre to LEARN English. When I have them engaged in a conversation, they neither can speak nor use the language properly. Sadly, this isn’t learning.
The measurement of learning depends on how well the speaker can communicate. In terms of English communication, a good English speaker, or a competent English communicator can:
Understand the listener (or the audience)
Make his/her language acceptable in different situations
Have his/her message get across
Make the listener (or the audience) understand or accept his/her view points and take actions
Be socially acceptable (having social etiquette)
Can you exhibit these? If your answer is yes, then you’re learning the language. If not, then you might want to change your study habits. Here are a few do’s and don’ts in learning…or rather… studying English.
DO’s and DON’Ts in studying English
DO read a variety of English articles you’re interested in – this expands not only your vocabulary, but also your horizon
DO practice by chatting with others (foreigners or even Chinese) in English
DO practice by writing or engaging in online discussions
DO share your knowledge in English by writing some interesting articles, giving presentations or just discussing what you have learnt in English
DO transfer or apply your knowledge in your daily life
DO join some English clubs or English corners to interact with others in English
DON’T just read English articles, listen to English songs or watch English movies, without doing anything about it
DON’T focus too much on memorization and reciting – this actually deters your ability to be fluent
DON’T be afraid to make mistakes – we all learn from mistakes
DON’T limit your abilities – explore, expand, enrich – you’re more capable than what you think
DON’T forget to be careful with your choice of words
DON’T use the language to start negative thoughts or actions – make yourself look and sound professional
Studying is different from learning. Studying is the process and learning is the outcome. Many people never learn no matter how hard they study, so that’s why they have to change their study habits – be more active, rather than passive, do more and be more engaged. Most importantly, share more to learn more. Learning takes place when we are enjoying the process, rather than forcing ourselves to study. Find your way to study English. Make it fun. Make it an enjoyable process.