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New Books in Language
Alex Poole, "Learning a Foreign Language: Understanding the Fundamentals of Linguistics" (Rowman & Littlefield, 2020)
Sep 9, 2021
In this engaging discussion, Alex Poole, a professor specializing in language learning at Western Kentucky University, shares insights from his book on mastering foreign languages. He emphasizes the importance of motivation and realistic expectations, especially for first-time learners. Poole critiques the technicality of existing literature and suggests practical strategies for self-assessment. The conversation also contrasts the language learning experiences of Americans with those from other cultures, shedding light on the challenges posed by monolingualism.
32:41
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Quick takeaways
- Motivation plays a crucial role in language learning, shaped by both cultural influences and personal aspirations to communicate effectively.
- Self-assessment techniques, like performance checklists and diaries, help language learners track progress and foster a positive mindset towards incremental growth.
Deep dives
Personal Journey in Language Acquisition
The guest shares his personal experiences that shaped his fascination with language learning, emphasizing a background rich in multilingual influences. Growing up with family members who spoke various languages, including French, Yiddish, Urdu, and Arabic, created an early exposure to linguistic diversity. Additionally, his inspiration was fueled by cultural depictions of language in media and a desire to communicate with his Colombian in-laws, which highlighted both intrinsic and extrinsic motivations behind his language learning journey. This combination of familial context and personal aspirations underlines the significance of motivation in acquiring foreign languages.
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Discover
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