Bonus Episode: How Long Until I Get Fluent in English? with The Level Up English Podcast
Oct 31, 2023
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Language learning expert Michael Lavers discusses the duration to achieve fluency in English. The process is longer than the achievement. Factors affecting learning speed are explored. Enjoying the journey is crucial for effective learning.
Fluency in English does not have a clear end point and varies based on individual goals and definitions.
Focusing on the time it takes to become fluent may hinder enjoyment of the language learning process, so it is important to embrace the journey itself.
Deep dives
The Complexity of Fluency
Achieving fluency in English is not a straightforward process and does not have a clear end point. Unlike other subjects, language learning does not have a definitive '100% fluency' mark. Native speakers themselves continue to learn and improve their language skills. The concept of fluency is subjective and varies depending on individual goals and definitions. Language learners often achieve a high level of conversational comfort without realizing it and should appreciate their progress rather than solely focusing on reaching a specific fluency milestone. Factors such as natural abilities, study habits, and commitment also impact the time required to become fluent in English.
Enjoying the Learning Journey
Focusing on the time it takes to become fluent in English may hinder language learners' enjoyment of the learning process. It is important to shift mindset from 'when' and 'how long' to embracing the journey itself. Comparing language learning to a road trip, it is crucial to appreciate and find fulfillment in every step of the process. By fostering joy and satisfaction in the daily language learning routine, learners can enhance their motivation, improve efficiency, and experience a more positive language learning journey. Fluency, being an ongoing process, requires continuous effort and commitment, rendering the journey as the focal point rather than a distant destination.
No Clear Timeline for Fluency
Determining a specific timeline for achieving fluency is challenging due to individual differences, varied study approaches, and differing definitions of fluency. Factors such as natural abilities, study duration, and study efficiency come into play when gauging how long it takes to become fluent in English. While exams may have more defined goals, achieving overall fluency requires continuous learning and improvement. It is recommended to allocate substantial time and effort, potentially multiple months or 200 hours for exam preparation, while keeping in mind that personal progress and achievement may differ from person to person. Ultimately, prioritizing enjoyment, focusing on progress, and embracing the journey are key in the pursuit of fluency.
Today we have a bonus episode from The Level Up English Podcast with Michael Lavers, answering the question 'How long does it take to get fluent in English?'. Get the transcript here: https://www.levelupenglish.school/podcast213/
Here are the key lessons from the episode:
There is no “100%” in language learning
It’s not easy to set specific in language learning
Students often reach a level of fluency before they realise it
There are many factors that affect learning speed (focus, your mind, your free time, etc)
If you focus on “when” and “how long”, you will never enjoy the journey.
If you don’t enjoy the process of learning, you will probably learn more slowly.
The process of learning is always much longer than the achievement of having learnt something. Focus on enjoying the longer one, because that is your life.