Polyglot & TED Speaker Lýdia Machová’s 4 Core Principles of Effective Language Learning

Topics

In the interview, we discuss:

• Why Lýdia passed the reins to other organizers for the 2019 Polyglot Gathering.

• How Lýdia got interested in languages and why the traditional classroom approach didn’t work.

• How non-traditional methods like reading Harry Potter and watching Friends helped her acquire languages quickly and more enjoyably.

• How Lýdia defines “comfortable fluency” and what language level she aims for in each new language.

• Why you should think in terms of hours not years when learning a foreign language.

• Why success in language learning depends on interest and finding effective methods, not being “good at languages.”

• Lýdia’s thoughts on the “Critical Period Hypothesis” and why you can learn a language at any age.

• Why there will never be a “good” time to start speaking so you might as well start practicing as early as possible.

• Why speaking a foreign language is about applying the words you know, not translating word for word from your mother tongue.

• The four core principles of effective language learning: ① having fun, ② choosing effective methods, ③ taking a systemic, habit-based approach, and ④ maximizing contact with the language.

• How to use David James’ “Goldlist Method” to learn vocabulary quickly and easily.

• Why language apps such as Duolingo can be a useful adjunct to other language activities, but why apps alone are never enough.

• The critical difference between “passive recognition” and “active production” in language learning.

• Why Lýdia always elicits specific language learning goals from her clients first and then adjusts her recommendations to fit them.

• Lýdia’s thoughts on the “I don’t have time” excuse. Why you should focus your time on a small number of core apps or resources.

• How to fully leverage a single resource with multiple methods. Lýdia’s words of encouragement for new language learners.

• Why you don’t have to be a “polyglot” to attend events like Polyglot Gathering, Polyglot Conference, etc.

Learn More

• Language Mentoring (Lýdia's site)

• The Polyglot Gathering

• The secrets of learning a new language (Lýdia's TED Talk)