Learn Languages with Steve Kaufmann
Steve Kaufmann
I speak 20 languages. I've been learning languages for over 50 years and I've tried all kinds of approaches. I talk about my experiences, my approach to language learning, what I enjoy about learning languages and all manner of other topics related to language.
If you love languages, or think you would if you hadn't been discouraged by past experiences, this is the podcast for you. Anyone can learn a language. You just need the right attitude and the right approach!
If you love languages, or think you would if you hadn't been discouraged by past experiences, this is the podcast for you. Anyone can learn a language. You just need the right attitude and the right approach!
Episodes
Mentioned books
Jul 9, 2021 • 10min
Extensive Reading Works: And That Means Real Books
Books, plain old paper books, are a vital part of my language learning strategy. Traditional books are comfortable and comforting, with less opportunities for distraction than reading on my mobile device. It helps to cover the same material in different ways, electronic and paper based.
Study a language on LingQ: https://bit.ly/3hrbnjB
Jul 5, 2021 • 8min
Why Many People Fail At Language Learning
Most language learners fail. They may pass their exams but they fail to learn to speak the language they are learning, which is generally the goal. Maybe it's time to change the goal.
Study a language on LingQ: https://bit.ly/3dKRmlL
Jul 1, 2021 • 10min
How To Improve Your Listening Skills
Listening is the killer app for language learning. How do we get better at listening if we struggle to focus?
Study a language on LingQ: https://bit.ly/36iHITr
Jun 28, 2021 • 10min
DO NOT Go To Language School
Most people learn languages at school. How important are they to learning a language? It depends on the individual. I wouldn't go to one but recognize that for many people they are necessary.
Study a language on LingQ: https://bit.ly/3A3EZdU
Jun 25, 2021 • 8min
Novak Djokovic Communicates So Well In French! Even With Mistakes
Languages are for communicating, not for competing with others. Novak Djokovic competes in tennis but communicates wonderfully in different languages, despite the odd mistake.
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Study a language on LingQ: https://bit.ly/3gTEvzs
Jun 21, 2021 • 10min
Critical Thinking Skills: Can They Really Be Taught?
Speaking skills in a language rely on massive input, listening, and reading. Critical thinking skills rely on knowledge of the subject matter, acquired through massive input, reading, and listening. I don't think these skills can be taught without massive input.
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Study a language on LingQ: https://bit.ly/3iZ56wt
Jun 18, 2021 • 8min
Learning Arabic and Persian: Language Challenge Week 2
The most important function of a teacher, any teacher, including online language teachers, is to either feed the enthusiasm of the student or,
where that is lacking, to trigger and inspire the desire to learn.
Study a language on LingQ: https://bit.ly/3iOYeSk
Jun 14, 2021 • 7min
How To Learn A Language The LAZY Way
Learn how to successfully learn a language the lazy way with hints on setting low goals, reducing stress, and not competing. Discover the benefits of using Danish TV series and Egyptian movies for language learning and the importance of making it entertaining. Explore the habits of a lazy language learner, including minimal preparation, variety, self-acceptance, and engagement.
Jun 10, 2021 • 9min
Learning Arabic & Persian Language Challenge Week 1
I'm in the "Streak with Steve" challenge for both Arabic and Persian. I chose a minimal number of "LingQs created" in each language to make it easier to maintain my streak. In fact, I create many more LingQs every day in my major language of the week, and just try to keep the minor language streak alive.
Learn languages like I do on LingQ: https://bit.ly/2ShaLDr
Jun 7, 2021 • 8min
Do NOT Study Grammar
Grammar describes usage in a language at any given time in its evolution. It's hard for us to learn these rules of usage without a considerable investment of time in reading and listening. Input is the best way for our brain to get used to the patterns of language.
Learn languages like I do on LingQ: https://bit.ly/34XdowY
