Learn Languages with Steve Kaufmann
Steve Kaufmann
I speak 20 languages. I've been learning languages for over 50 years and I've tried all kinds of approaches. I talk about my experiences, my approach to language learning, what I enjoy about learning languages and all manner of other topics related to language.
If you love languages, or think you would if you hadn't been discouraged by past experiences, this is the podcast for you. Anyone can learn a language. You just need the right attitude and the right approach!
If you love languages, or think you would if you hadn't been discouraged by past experiences, this is the podcast for you. Anyone can learn a language. You just need the right attitude and the right approach!
Episodes
Mentioned books
Jul 19, 2021 • 13min
For Better Pronunciation In A Foreign Language, Work On Your Attitude
Pronouncing well doesn’t mean pronouncing perfectly, it may require deliberate effort. That was my experience when learning Mandarin and French. In subsequent languages, the pronunciation just came to me.
Study a language on LingQ: https://bit.ly/3rj79O4
Jul 15, 2021 • 7min
Is There A Talent For Language Learning
When people hear me speak languages like Mandarin, Japanese, French, or Russian, or see me eagerly trying out my more limited abilities in languages like Persian, Korean or Arabic, they often tell me I’ve a talent for languages. Yet these same people don’t put the effort into learning languages that I do.
Study a language on LingQ: https://bit.ly/3kn0qBp
Jul 12, 2021 • 10min
The Noticing Hypothesis In Language Learning
As we are exposed to more of a language, things we hadn’t noticed before all of a sudden appear to us. This process of noticing more and more is an important part of acquiring the language.
Study a language on LingQ: https://bit.ly/3xBR8Fv
Jul 9, 2021 • 10min
Extensive Reading Works: And That Means Real Books
A passionate case for learning languages with plain paper books. Short takes on why printed pages reduce distractions and feel comforting. Discussion of mixing books with digital tools and using platforms as training wheels. Notes on pairing audio, e-text and paper, plus practical workarounds when publishers limit access.
Jul 5, 2021 • 8min
Why Many People Fail At Language Learning
Most language learners fail. They may pass their exams but they fail to learn to speak the language they are learning, which is generally the goal. Maybe it's time to change the goal.
Study a language on LingQ: https://bit.ly/3dKRmlL
Jul 1, 2021 • 10min
How To Improve Your Listening Skills
Listening is the killer app for language learning. How do we get better at listening if we struggle to focus?
Study a language on LingQ: https://bit.ly/36iHITr
Jun 28, 2021 • 10min
DO NOT Go To Language School
Most people learn languages at school. How important are they to learning a language? It depends on the individual. I wouldn't go to one but recognize that for many people they are necessary.
Study a language on LingQ: https://bit.ly/3A3EZdU
Jun 25, 2021 • 8min
Novak Djokovic Communicates So Well In French! Even With Mistakes
Languages are for communicating, not for competing with others. Novak Djokovic competes in tennis but communicates wonderfully in different languages, despite the odd mistake.
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Study a language on LingQ: https://bit.ly/3gTEvzs
Jun 21, 2021 • 10min
Critical Thinking Skills: Can They Really Be Taught?
Speaking skills in a language rely on massive input, listening, and reading. Critical thinking skills rely on knowledge of the subject matter, acquired through massive input, reading, and listening. I don't think these skills can be taught without massive input.
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Study a language on LingQ: https://bit.ly/3iZ56wt
Jun 18, 2021 • 8min
Learning Arabic and Persian: Language Challenge Week 2
The most important function of a teacher, any teacher, including online language teachers, is to either feed the enthusiasm of the student or,
where that is lacking, to trigger and inspire the desire to learn.
Study a language on LingQ: https://bit.ly/3iOYeSk
