Ep255: Memory Secrets for Language Learning - Dr Anthony Metivier
May 24, 2024
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Dr. Anthony Metivier, memory expert, shares language learning journey from French struggles to mastering German, Mandarin, Latin, Hebrew, and Sanskrit. Challenges popular language input theories, criticizes gamified apps. Reveals memory techniques for fast-tracked acquisition, importance of extensive reading and setting clear goals.
Dr. Anthony Mativier emphasizes personalized language learning approaches based on individual interests and goals.
He challenges popular theories on language acquisition, advocating for a multi-level processing method involving various language skills.
Finding novels in the target language that align with personal interests can enhance language learning experience and long-term engagement.
Deep dives
Language Learning Journey and Struggles
Dr. Anthony Mativier shares his unique language learning journey, from childhood struggles with French to success in languages like German, Mandarin, Latin, Hebrew, and Sanskrit. Growing up in French immersion but facing setbacks, he eventually developed a quirky perspective on language fluency. Despite facing challenges, his mission-oriented approach led to successful language acquisition.
Paradigm Shift in Language Learning
Dr. Mativier discusses a significant paradigm shift in his language learning approach during his time in Germany. Emphasizing the importance of reading in language acquisition, he highlights the value of anticipating grammar rules while reading. He challenges popular theories of comprehensible input and advocates for a multi-level processing approach involving reading, writing, speaking, listening, and remembering to optimize language learning.
Approach to Grammar and Language Immersion
Dr. Mativier shares his nuanced perspective on grammar in language learning, emphasizing its relevance based on the language and personal goals. He discusses the balance between grammar study and immersion, suggesting personalized approaches for different languages and objectives. Highlighting the importance of creating a fulfilling language learning experience aligned with individual interests and objectives, he underscores the significance of intentionality and goal-oriented practice.
Finding Intrinsically Motivating Material to Learn
The speaker emphasizes the importance of finding novels written in the target language that aligns closely with the language as spoken by native speakers. By choosing material that genuinely interests them, the speaker discovered a love for reading and effortlessly improved language skills. They suggest that by immersing yourself in content that resonates with your passions, you can enhance your language learning experience and maintain long-term engagement with the material.
Personal Responsibility in Language Learning
The speaker criticizes traditional language learning methods that focus on standardized tests and efficiency over personal interest. They advocate for taking responsibility for one's learning journey by focusing on individual goals and interests. By emphasizing intrinsic motivation and personal accountability, the speaker suggests that learners can achieve greater success and long-term language retention by selecting engaging content and actively engaging with the language on a daily basis.
In this episode I am once again joined by Dr Anthony Metivier, author and internationally renowned memory expert who’s meditation practice is reciting sacred Sanskrit texts from memory.
Anthony shares his own language learning journey, including his childhood struggles learning French, to later success with languages such as German, Mandarin, Latin, Hebrew, and Sanskrit.
Anthony describes the 5 levels of processing and reveals how he uses his expertise in the art of memory to fast track language acquisition, including strategies to optimise progress in vocabulary, grammar, and comprehension.
Anthony challenges popular theories of comprehensible input, criticises gamified language learning apps, and reveals his number one secret to success in foreign language study.
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Video version: https://www.guruviking.com/podcast/ep255-memory-secrets-for-language-learning-dr-anthony-metivier
Also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’.
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Topics include:
00:00 - Intro
00:55 - Anthony’s struggles with English
03:09 - Early life aversion to language learning
04:06 - Learning Hebrew as a revenge language
05:20 - Moving to Germany and unlocking the secrets of language learning
06:45 - Passing level 3 in Mandarin and other studies
08:55 - Impressive Hebrew progress
10:23 - Grammar tables and the importance of extensive reading
11:30 - Criticism of comprehensible input theories
12:30 - 5 levels of processing
14:20 - Key metrics to avoid overwhelm
16:54 - Advice for beginners and intermediates
19:02 - Frequency lists
20:53 - Working with native speakers
22:19 - A powerful reading regime
24:38 - Movie mixing
26:33 - Speaking and yogic exercises
28:28 - Latin grammar approaches
32:03 - Don’t need to learn grammar?
33:44 - Anticipatory reading
35:40 - Latin and Sanskrit vs German and Mandarin
37:38 - Disillusionment after fluency
39:55 - Breaking through to German fluency with extensive reading
43:46 - Problems with the language learning industry
46:40 - The tragedy of gamified apps
49:26 - Fast tracking vocabulary acquisition
56:39 - Linguistic deskilling
58:15 - Pros and cons of tests and exams
01:02:04 - Maintaining multiple languages
01:05:28 - The power of laddering
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Previous episodes with Anthony Metivier:
- https://www.guruviking.com/search?q=metivier
To find out more about Anthony Metivier, visit:
- https://www.youtube.com/c/AnthonyMetivierMMM
- https://www.magneticmemorymethod.com/
For more interviews, videos, and more visit:
- www.guruviking.com
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Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James
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