What is the Most Effective Language Learning Strategy?

I’ve been learning languages for the last 17 years.

In the most recent 4 years, I've spent thousands of dollars researching different ways to learn languages.

Most recently, I made an app that connects cultures by accelerating their language learning.

Yet, I still wonder: “What is the best way to learn a new language?”

I'm deeply invested in finding the answer, sharing those findings with you, and integrating them into my app.

Let's explore the best science has to offer for learning a new language, quickly, together.

How We Learn Languages

Input Hypothesis and Comprehensible Input

In 1977 Stephen Krashen created the now famous "Input Hypothesis" also called Comprehensible Input.

Today, this is the most influential language learning theory.

The input Hypothesis says that we acquire language by understanding messages slightly above our current level (i+1).

It is intuitive and well-tested.

But, it isn't perfect. Here are three key counterarguments:

1. Overemphasis on input at the expense of output

Krashen's theory undervalues the importance of output.

No one ever says "I want to understand Spanish".

They say "I want to speak Spanish".

2. Departure from real-world situations

In the real world, learners rarely interact with content at the exact level they need for ideal comprehension.

Yet, people become fluent all the time at all ages.

3. Neglect of individual differences

This theory doesn't account for different people having different optimal learning styles.

So, if input isn't enough what is?

What happened after Krashen is a sensational story I hope to dive into with more detail.

Until then, let's focus on the main points.

After Krashen's Input Hypothesis, came:

- Swain's Output Hypothesis (1985) which says:

It's through output (speaking/listening) that one acquires a language because learners can see and reflect on their gaps.

- Brown's Automatic Language Growth Hypothesis (1988) which says:

Adults can acquire languages effortlessly, like children, by focusing on understanding meaning without forced output.

- Schmidt's Noticing Hypothesis (1990) which says:

Learners must consciously notice the grammatical form of their input in order to acquire language.

- Muho & Kurani's Interaction Hypothesis (2011) which says:

Participation in tasks in which communication is necessary should participants mirror communication levels.

Interesting ideas.

Somewhat contradictory.

Given what we've learned, what now?

Connecting Theory to Action

Immersion (Input)

Immersion, digital or physical, is core to all of these hypotheses.

We can immerse ourselves anywhere by watching YouTube videos or reading books slightly above our level.

Even if just for 15 minutes this is the singularly most important action.

Practice Actively (Output)

From the research above, the nuance here is when.

And, the answer is it depends on you.

If you're motivated by talking with others or thinking by talking, then speaking earlier may be better.

If you're more introverted and motivated by understanding first -- delay output.

For me, I'm a mix of both. But, right now I'm learning Japanese and it's a bit complex. So, I'm giving myself time before I aim to practice speaking.

Whenever we're ready there are some actions we can take:

- Hire a tutor or use an AI tutor

- Join a local or digital community

- Or, simply keep a journal in our target language

Notice Patterns (Active Learning)

The more we pay attention to new words, phrases, and grammar as we encounter them, the faster we learn.

Honestly, this is a learning for me. The journal idea from "Practice Output" can double as a way to bring awareness to language patterns.

Reflecting on these notes weekly is a key takeaway from Swain, Muho and Kurani.

Enjoy the Language (Passive Learning)

We can learn from Brown's Automatic Language Growth that passive consumption is beneficial.

Watching a movie, reading a comic, or listening to music in your target language effectively builds your ability.

We can relax a bit and not worry about understanding everything.

It seems there's a balance between active and passive learning.

That ratio likely depends on each person.

But, both benefit us.

Use What's New and Stay Flexible (My Perspective)

I want to note that the "most influential" study is from 1977. A lot has changed since then.

Let's take the principles that don't change and apply them to technologies that do.

Listening? Use YouTube.

Reading? Try LumiReader.

Flashcards? Use Anki.

Immediate Speaking? Try Pimsleur.

At the end of each week, we can spend 10 minutes thinking about what worked well and what didn't.

And celebrate our improvements, no matter how small.

Language learning is a lifestyle, not a mission.

And the best method?

Well, it's the one we stick with.

p.s. If you found this helpful then share it with a friend!

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