7 Key Insights into the Natural Approach for Language Learning

This parallels how a child effortlessly learns their native language, distinct from conventional teaching techniques and methods.

Current classroom language learning often involves intricate curriculum development, emphasising complex language rules, tests, tedious exercises, and repetitive memorisation techniques. Unfortunately, this has led to frustration for many learners.

Stephen Krashen, a prominent theorist and innovator in the field of language learning, advocates that the most effective way to acquire new languages involves providing learners with comprehensible and meaningful information rather than relying on rote teaching techniques and direct instruction. Research in brain-based learning mechanisms has validated his theories.

In his book Learning: The Human Brain and the School for Life, the German brain researcher Manfred Spitzer asserts that learning occurs in the brain, not in the school.

7 Key Insights into the Natural Approach for Language Learning

1. The Brain Is Capable Of Autonomously Learning Languages

The brain is inherently designed for perpetual learning, constantly forging new neural cells and connections in response to auditory and visual stimuli, as well as an individual's accumulated experiences and experiments. It autonomously extracts insights from the input it receives, relying predominantly on its internally established rules rather than explicit logical explanations. Operating tirelessly and consuming a remarkable 20% of the body's energy, the brain exhibits the remarkable capacity to learn languages even as one ages. Engaging in language learning is not only a cognitive exercise but also a beneficial endeavour for brain health in such circumstances.

Here are three insights into the functioning of the brain:

• The brain autonomously establishes its own set of rules through the natural process of assimilating incoming information.
• Learning for the brain takes time, demanding sustained exposure to enjoyable and meaningful content throughout this journey.
• The brain showcases an impressive capacity to organise its learning processes by prioritising simpler subjects initially and deferring more complex ones to a later stage.

2. Substantial Exposure To Meaningful Linguistic Content

The brain's learning capacity is enhanced when exposed to enjoyable content tailored to the learner's interests. Successful language acquisition requires consistent engagement with substantial amounts of captivating linguistic material. Repetition of both written and spoken information is recommended to solidify understanding in the early stages of language learning. Furthermore, it is advisable to incorporate new, enjoyable, stimulating, and purposeful content as progress is made. Here are three ideas for selecting appropriate content for learning new languages:

• People learn from stories, real conversations, examples, and following programs and TV shows more than they learn from rules and theoretical information.
• Individuals learn more from content related to their personal interests.
• The learning process becomes smoother when the content, whether read or heard, suits the learner's difficulty level. Additionally, the content should be enjoyable and primarily aligned with the learner's interests.

3. The Brain Acclimates To the New Language Through Consistent Repetition

The brain learns naturally through observation, ongoing categorisation of incoming data, and developing its own rules. However, it is also prone to forgetting acquired information. Therefore, it is recommended to regularly review grammar rules, vocabulary lists, words, and phrases previously studied.

Concentrating on linguistic errors and engaging in writing and conversation based on the learner's preferences are crucial activities in the traditional language learning approach. In the natural method, these activities play a secondary role but contribute to heightened attention. However, it's important to note that they should not substitute for fundamental reading and listening practices.

Here are three insights into the brain's learning mechanism:

• Successful language learning requires acquiring substantial linguistic data.
• The brain's ability to focus on language increases through activities such as conversation, writing, or reviewing vocabulary and grammar rules.
• This heightened attention enhances the brain's ability to discern language patterns and sounds.

4. Learning Becomes More Effective When Positive Emotions Are Actively Engaged

Stimulating positive emotions activates the brain and enhances the effectiveness of the learning process. Positive emotions can be triggered by reading an engaging story, listening to audiobooks, or spending time with loved ones. Conversely, learning effectiveness diminishes when engaging in tedious tasks or facing pressure and stress during the learning process.

Here are three steps to leverage emotions in the language learning process:

• Focus on materials that genuinely captivate the learner, embracing tasks that align with their interests. Steering clear of activities that fail to pique their curiosity is crucial.
• Engage with audiobooks and select narrators with captivating styles that grab attention. The goal is to encourage learners to listen regularly, making the process both enjoyable and beneficial.
• Foster a deep affection for the language being learned and immerse yourself in the associated culture.

5. Achieving Success IS Motivator For Continuous Learning

Motivation is the key propellant behind the learning process, acting as the primary force that propels individuals toward achieving success.

Learners often lose their enthusiasm when exposed to traditional language learning methods that emphasise intricate grammatical rules. In a natural learning environment, the teacher inspires learners to autonomously embrace language acquisition, shifting away from the conventional approach of task assignments and didactic explanations.

Here are three key insights into the pivotal role of success in motivating language learners:

• While many aspire to learn a new language, self-doubt often clouds their confidence, stemming from the unfamiliarity of the task and a lack of prior language-learning success.
• The brain's reward system comes alive as individuals grasp the nuances of a new language, especially during activities like reading and listening. This activation not only fosters a sense of accomplishment but also propels learners to seek out more knowledge.
• Tangible results and visible progress act as potent motivators, compelling individuals to persist in their language-learning journey and strive for continuous improvement.

6. Some Individuals Struggle Due To Their Resistance To The Accompanying Changes

As neural networks transform the learning process, individuals not only acquire new language skills but also adopt fresh behaviours influenced by the culture associated with the language they are learning. This profound shift contributes to the evolution of their personalities, beliefs, and perspectives on the world.

The challenges adults often encounter in learning new languages are frequently rooted in their resistance to embracing the necessary changes that accompany the learning journey. Humans, naturally inclined towards personal comfort, often prefer sticking to the familiar patterns and sounds of their native language rather than fully committing to mastering the intricacies of a new linguistic skill set.

Here are three facts about the accompanying changes in the learning process:

• Children, unburdened by fear, embrace change eagerly. When relocating to a new country, they enthusiastically adopt the language of their new friends.
• Adult learners tend to hold onto their identity, native language, established behaviours, and prior knowledge as they navigate the challenges of acquiring a new language.
• Adults can overcome these challenges more effectively when learning in a supportive environment, collaborating with peers, and benefiting from the guidance of an encouraging teacher.

7. The Internet Serves As A Natural Learning Tool That Is Available For Everyone

The Internet serves as a rich resource for educational content supporting many languages. Various websites employ unique methodologies, providing learners with diverse approaches. Additionally, the Internet facilitates communication with private tutors globally and offers opportunities for language practice with native speakers.

The internet has evolved into a classroom, library, educational content source, language learning lab, and a platform for receiving support from others. It has revolutionised language learning conditions, creating an ideal environment for natural language acquisition.

Here are three facts about the role of the internet in the natural language learning approach:

• Online learning is universally accessible, often at little to no cost.
• Modern multimedia tools and many online resources have significantly contributed to creating conducive conditions for the natural language learning process.
• It is advisable to engage with online learning communities to enhance the learning experience and foster collaboration.