Mastering a Second Language Made Easier with Baby-like Language Learning

Mastering a Second Language Made Easier with Baby-like Language Learning

Learning a second language as an adult can be a daunting task. Many people have tried and failed, often feeling discouraged by their lack of progress. However, according to Stephen Krashen, professor emeritus at the University of Southern California, there is a better approach to mastering a second language. In the 1980s, Krashen developed the Comprehensible Input Theory of language acquisition, which emphasizes the importance of acquiring a language rather than simply learning it through traditional methods such as memorization and grammar rules.

The key difference between learning and acquisition lies in the way the brain processes information. When we learn a language in a traditional classroom setting, we rely on conscious effort to memorize vocabulary and grammar rules. In contrast, language acquisition occurs when we are exposed to a language in a natural, immersive environment, much like how we learned our native language as children. By listening to and engaging with people speaking the language, our brains are able to pick up on patterns and learn the language without conscious effort.

Comprehensible Input (CI) is a method that mimics the way babies learn language. Babies are able to effortlessly pick up their native tongues by being exposed to language in a natural, engaging way. Parents don’t teach babies through vocabulary lists and grammar worksheets; instead, they speak to them in a special way known as infant-directed speech. This form of communication involves speaking slowly, using simpler words and shorter phrases, and employing exaggerated intonation. Babies are able to process the statistical patterns in language, making them highly receptive to learning language in this manner.

So, how can adults harness the power of CI to learn a second language? The process involves finding content in the language you want to learn and regularly immersing yourself in it. The material should be easily understandable, similar to baby talk, with gestures, pointing, and pictures to aid comprehension. Gradually, as you expose yourself to more input, you will be able to comprehend more complex material and progress towards fluency in the language. The key is to find content that is not only understandable but also enjoyable, so that you remain engaged and motivated in your language learning journey.

One of the challenges adults face when learning a new language is the lack of consistent immersion in the language environment. Unlike children who are constantly exposed to their native language through interactions with parents and siblings, adults often learn in a classroom setting a few times a week or through self-study methods. This lack of immersion can hinder the learning process and slow down progress. While CI cannot fully replicate the level of immersion experienced by children, it can provide a more immersive learning experience compared to traditional classroom settings.

It is important to note that CI is not a quick fix for learning a language. It requires time and dedication to effectively acquire a new language. Research shows that it takes approximately 600 hours of input to reach an advanced level in a second language, which is still below the proficiency of a native speaker. However, by consistently exposing yourself to comprehensible input and engaging with the language, you can make significant progress in your language learning journey.

In conclusion, mastering a second language as an adult is not an impossible task. By adopting the principles of Comprehensible Input and mimicking the way babies learn language, adults can effectively acquire a new language in a natural and engaging manner. With dedication, consistency, and the right resources, anyone can become proficient in a second language and expand their cultural horizons through the power of language acquisition.