Unique Ways to Learn a Language: Thinking Outside the Classroom
Former bank officer Sri Devi Mani, known online as Ms Shirley, found remarkable success teaching Mandarin using Tamil. Growing up speaking Tamil in Selangor, a town in Malaysia, she creatively blends it with Mandarin in her lessons, captivating over 70,000 followers on TikTok and Instagram. Initially hesitant, Ms Sri Devi embraced online teaching after the pandemic closed her kindergarten, sharing videos that showcase her unique teaching style.
With a background in early childhood education and fluency in multiple languages, she now helps Tamil speakers confidently learn Mandarin, offering affordable and engaging online classes incorporating games and interactive conversations. Her innovative approach has not only garnered millions of views but also transformed language learning for her students across the globe.
Here's Ms Shirley teaching Chinese using Tamil in a TikTok video: https://www.tiktok.com/@easymandarintiktok/video/7358390398844177682
Ms Sri Devi's story is a testament to the power of innovative teaching methods in language learning. Traditional classroom settings are not the only way to master a new language. Here are some unique and effective ways to learn a language that break away from conventional methods:
1. Language Exchange Partners: Connecting with a native speaker who wants to learn your language can be mutually beneficial. This exchange allows both parties to practice speaking and listening in a real-world context. Apps like Tandem and HelloTalk can facilitate finding a suitable partner.
2. Immersive Experiences: Creating an immersive environment can significantly enhance language learning even if you can't travel. Change the language settings on your devices, listen to music, watch movies, and read books in your target language. Surrounding yourself with the language helps reinforce learning and improve comprehension.
3. Gamification: Using language learning apps incorporating game-like elements can make learning more engaging. Apps like Duolingo, Memrise, and Babbel use rewards, challenges, and leaderboards to motivate users to keep learning. These interactive platforms often provide instant feedback, making learning fun and effective.
4. Social Media and Online Communities: Joining online communities or following social media influencers who teach your target language can provide daily exposure and practical learning opportunities. Platforms like TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube offer a wealth of language content from native speakers and language enthusiasts who share tips, tutorials, and cultural insights.
5. Creative Writing and Storytelling: Writing short stories, blogs, or journaling in your target language can enhance vocabulary and grammatical skills. Engaging in creative writing pushes you to think in the language and express complex ideas, aiding in fluency. Additionally, storytelling helps in remembering new words and phrases by associating them with a narrative.
Incorporating these unique methods into your language learning routine can make the process more enjoyable and effective. Like Ms Sri Devi, who creatively combines Tamil and Mandarin to teach her students, finding what works best for you and embracing unconventional approaches can lead to remarkable progress in mastering a new language.
About the Author
Gerald Lee is the Chief Marketing Officer with Flynde, a global company providing translation solutions to businesses of all sizes.
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