Supplementary podcasts in language learning
Thursday, 11th June 2009
Learning or revising a language via audio lessons is not a new phenomenon.
People have long been using cassettes and CDs to improve their language skills with audio supplements. Recent technological advances, however, have meant firstly, that the equipment used for audio learning is more lightweight, longer-lasting and convenient, and secondly that the content can be presented in a more interesting and varied way.
Whereas before, an entire course-worth of material would need to be provided right from the start, podcasts allow you to obtain the information gradually and in a structured way, too.
Most people would still argue that the best way to learn a language is ‘face to face’ with a tutor, or as part of a class. Whilst this may be so, audio materials can still be a fantastic way to consolidate and extend what you have learned in each lesson.
One reason why language learners can find it difficult to retain information is that it is not generally enough to attend your weekly language class and then simply wait for the next. In order for you to truly absorb what you have learned, you need to practise. And this is not always easy.
Family, work or social commitments can easily get in the way of sitting down and revising what you did in your last lesson. Having an audio podcast relating to what you have learned therefore is the perfect solution - it enables you to revise and consolidate what you have learned, but in a way that’s convenient to you. Having the information on an Ipod, MP3 player, Iphone or laptop means that you can listen whether you’re on your way to work, on your lunch break, or even doing the washing up!
Cactus’ first i-learning tool has been designed solely with this in mind. Book an evening language course in Spanish with us today, and receive your supplementaryLanguage Minis!
Tags: language-minis, podcast, language course, language, cactus, part-time evening course, tailor-made, learning, spanish
Posted by Laura Harrison under Attitudes to Language Learning, Making Progress, Podcasts,
Permalink
