How long does it take to learn another language? (Part 2)

Factor 2: The Learning Environment

The learning environment is another important factor that will influence how quickly another language can be learnt. Learning environment includes:

LEARNING CONTEXT – Being in an environment where you have more opportunities outside of class to communicate in English are likely to help you learn faster, e.g. by studying in a country where English is widely spoken.

TEACHING METHODOLOGY – There are many things that a teacher does (if you have one) that could impact on how quickly you learn. For example, what kind of activities and tasks your teacher uses in class to help you develop in all four skills. How the teacher creates a positive atmosphere for learning and the ability to give appropriate feedback are also examples of factors that are likely to affect how quickly you learn.

INTENSITY OF PROGRAMME – Language courses with only a few hours of study per week with little self-study provide fewer opportunities for reviewing skills and language. Therefore, these courses are likely to be less effective in helping learners to remember the skills and language learnt in class. On the other hand, more intensive courses allow quicker review of these skills and language, so learners are more likely to remember what they have learnt in lessons.

GROUP DYNAMICS – If you are learning in a class, then the relationships and interactions within the class are likely to be important. Classmates can give useful feedback, provide assistance and advice as well as motivation and more opportunities for interaction (both in and outside of class).

ACCESS TO RESOURCES – Learners who have access to a range of appropriate resources and learning materials are also likely to learn more quickly. Those resources that provide extra opportunities for input (reading and listening) at an appropriate level outside of class are likely to be especially useful.

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