31 Steps to Learn a New Language: Step #21 - Converse With Native Speakers
As mentioned before, language needs practice. A learner must devote time to speaking it rather than just memorizing it in order for their tongue to become comfortable with the language. This is where conversing with natives comes into play. One need not fly halfway around the world and live in a strange, foreign land to do this. The internet is abundant with websites that allow the learner to practice speaking or writing skills, or both. These programs are often free and signing up for them is easy.
It is convenient to find language partners that assist in tutoring and correction on the internet. Skype is also an invaluable way to chat with native speakers. An hour or so of conversation in the chosen language with a native is almost as good as a day spent in the classroom. If the learner lives in or nearby a place where there are a lot of native speakers of this language, it is good to converse with them. Most people are more than willing to help. This experience also provides a large network for the learner to understand their culture better.
Here are the previous parts/steps of this series:
Step #01: Identify Your Learning Style
Step #02: Set Achievable Goals
Step #03: Accept That You Cannot Always Be Fluent
Step #04: Be Patient and Prepared to Put in Effort
Step #05: Take Advantage of Free Resources
Step #06: Adhere to a Strict Study Schedule
Step #07: Visualize Your Goals
Step #08: Write Notes by Hand
Step #09: Use Flashcards
Step #10: Prepare Visual Aids
Step #11: Revert Back to Childhood
Step #12: Embrace Mistakes
Step #13: Learn How to Listen
Step #14: Read Children's Books
Step #15: Consume Foreign Media You Find Interesting
Step #16: Listen to Radio Stations
Step #17: Learn Practical Phrases
Step #18: Record and Listen to Yourself
Step #19: Tolerate Ambiguity
Step #20: Learn the 100 Most Common Words
