Short video: Why most language learning methods don't work

This presents some interesting points on how a new language is learned and why certain methods work and why others don't. I'm still on the fence about what they talk about here, but i'm willing to try them out.

For example, a study showed that putting Spanish subtitles on a video did not help Spanish learners develop their English. I don't see how that works because I've generally learned to understand Japanese better that way. I don't know. I'll withhold judgment and you can decide for yourself if it's helpful or not. :)

I love subtitles even in English. I agree though that subtitles doesn't help with learning a language. 

Smartchiny wrote:

I love subtitles even in English. I agree though that subtitles doesn't help with learning a language.

Really? Well to be fair, even when I thought I was learning to speak Japanese through the subtitles, there was a lot I failed to understand because no one told me better. 

Caution to everyone: If you have been watching anime to learn to speak Japanese (like me ), be aware that there are *modes* of speaking that should be learned, not just words and phrases. There is a GIRL mode of speaking and a BOY mode of speaking, as well as modes for formal relationships and close relationships. In essence, guys should try not to sound like Japanese schoolgirls fawning over their seniors.

I'm laughing at 'mode of speaking'. I think that, not sure though, the same applies to learning French. The male and female voices and pitch often differ.

Personally, I believe that each person learns best with a different method. Some even learn best with a mix of different methods. There is no right or wrong method of learning rather, methods that work best for the individual.

TaylorFabio wrote:

Personally, I believe that each person learns best with a different method. Some even learn best with a mix of different methods. There is no right or wrong method of learning rather, methods that work best for the individual.

I know! It's like I said, I love the subtitles. They work for me. Apparently, they don't work so well for others, but does it mean we have to categorically brand it as a wrong method? Maybe not.