Technology
Create flash cards
whether digital or on paper
Explore using your IPod, MP3, CD in the language
in your car, and at moments when you are waiting or walking or biking, etc.
Some studies have even showed results during sleep!
Check out iPhone apps!
Use the Internet; search for websites.
Play games, read newspapers, look up your hobby, research for other subjects you are studying, etc.
Watch videos and movies in your new language.
Learn the words to popular songs and sing along!
Environment
Immersion!
Think of creating an environment in your room where you can be in contact with your language.
Visit centers and organizations that cater to foreign nationals and immigrants
International student centers, neighborhood and education centers, language and bi-lingual associations, national halls, consular offices, library, etc.
Study daily—develop a foreign language habit
Think of studying as you would for a sport or music: a series of skills that need practice!
Don’t miss a class!
And get to know at least one other student to study with.
Risk! Be fearless in making mistakes, and getting correction.
Would an athlete object when his or her coach corrected certain moves?
So also learning an instrument needs direction from a popular musician.
This is the role of a teacher or native speaker!
Think of building your skill set
Basics lead to more complicated variations:
for example, use “old” vocabulary to practice new grammar
Study with a friend, in a group,
involving yourself in speaking and listening. Play a game online or in the group in the language