- Factors Affecting Language Learning Speed<\/a>
- 1. Prior language learning experience<\/a><\/li>
- 2. Native language of the learner<\/a><\/li>
- 3. Instructional methods<\/a><\/li>
- 4. Use of authentic resources<\/a><\/li>
- 5. Age of learner<\/a><\/li>
- 6. The learning environment<\/a><\/li>
- 7. Motivation and dedication<\/a><\/li>
- 8. Starting proficiency level<\/a><\/li>
- 9. Cultural and social factors<\/a><\/li>
- 10. Natural aptitude<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li>
- Stages of English Proficiency<\/a><\/li>
- Estimated Learning Times<\/a><\/li>
- The Reality of Language Learning<\/a><\/li>
- Setting Realistic Goals<\/a><\/li>
- We’re Teacher-Powered!<\/a><\/li>
- The Importance of Consistency and Practice<\/a><\/li><\/ul>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n
Factors Affecting Language Learning Speed<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Many things influence how long it takes to learn English, but the following 10 factors are the most important to consider. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
1. Prior language learning experience<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
If a person has previously learned a second language or has experience with language learning techniques, they may have an advantage in acquiring English skills more quickly.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
For example, if a student in India has grown up speaking Hindi and also learning the local state language, then picking up English may prove easier. A student like this already knows to look for different sentence structures, verb conjugations, and correct spelling. Even though every language is different, they all have rules and exceptions to the rules, and having learned a language before can impact the amount of time it takes to learn English.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
2. Native language of the learner<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Ever wonder why Germans tend to speak such good English? It\u2019s because English and German share the same provenance. The native language or mother tongue of an individual can affect the learning speed of an additional language. Some languages share similarities with English, such as vocabulary or grammatical structures, which can facilitate the learning process.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Conversely, those who speak a Romance language like Spanish or Italian may find it harder to perfect their English.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/bridge.edu\/languages\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/How-Long-Does-It-Take-to-Learn-a-Language-Jorge.jpg\")
Bridge alum Jorge<\/a>, teaching English to employees at Nestl\u00e9 in Chile<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n 3. Instructional methods<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
People have unique learning styles, such as visual, auditory, or kinesthetic. Tailoring the learning approach to match one’s preferred style can enhance comprehension and retention of English language skills. In fact, learning should be personalized for individual learner needs, as there is no one-size-fits-all method. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Business English teachers with Bridge Corporate Language Learning combine the CEFR with the GSE<\/a> (Global Scale of English), which expands learner levels from six to a 10-90 scale. The GSE maps students’ target performance across a range of skills and domains, giving teachers a roadmap of learning objectives to inform their teaching strategies and course materials. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Essentially, the CEFR provides teachers with universally understood descriptions of English proficiency levels, and the granular scale of the GSE specifies what a learner can do within each of these levels. Using these tools in tandem can help fast-track learning progress. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Explore more ways to hyper-personalize Business English training. <\/a><\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n
4. Use of authentic resources<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
This goes hand in hand with instructional methods as access to authentic resources that put language learning in the context of job-specific tasks can influence how long it takes to learn English. A task-based learning methodology<\/a>, for example, may provide authentic resources for the learner to practice writing emails or reports, or a variety of other typical job-specific tasks. With effective instructional techniques and support, such as using language learning apps, project-based tasks, and working with a tutor, task-based learning will optimize the learning experience. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
As Business English language learners will often engage with other non-native English speakers in their professional capacity, Bridge teachers also use course materials that teach English as a global language<\/a>, recognizing varied accents, dialects, and cultural nuances.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u201cWe use Pearson’s materials,\u201d said Bridge’s Academic Operations Coordinator, Umut Erg\u00f6z, \u201cwhich have lots of listening materials where the speakers are speaking with Japanese accents, Indian accents, Australian accents, Scottish accents, and so on.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n
He also shared that Bridge teachers use video as well to expose students to other ways people speak and use English.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Read about five ways to use AI as your personal teaching assistant.<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n
5. Age of learner<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Generally, younger learners tend to acquire languages more easily than adults. Children have a higher degree of language plasticity and tend to pick up languages through immersion and natural exposure. However, this doesn’t mean that adults cannot learn English proficiently; they just may approach the learning process differently. An adult student may feel self-conscious speaking aloud or struggle to find time to practice the language, but with the right instructional methods, rapport with a teacher, and flexible course schedules, there are workarounds to address challenges for adult learners. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Many adult students use language apps like FLOW Speak, Duolingo, or TalkPal for conversational practice. Teachers can provide information about resources like these to use for extended learning beyond the classroom. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
For example, the FLOW Speak<\/a> app features speaking and listening practice lessons, many of which are geared toward using Business English in various situations.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Read more about some of the best digital tools for teaching English online.<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/bridge.edu\/languages\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/How-Long-Does-it-Take-to-Learn-a-Language-Lisa.jpg\")
Bridge alum Lisa<\/a>, teaching Business English online in Argentina<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n 6. The learning environment<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
The learning environment, including access to resources, exposure to native English speakers, and immersion opportunities, can greatly impact learning speed. Living in an English-speaking country or regularly interacting with native speakers tends to accelerate fluency. For example, if somebody who only speaks Spanish moves to England, the natural exposure to English will likely accelerate language acquisition.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Whether teaching online or in person, teachers can do a lot to create a fun, engaging, and effective learning environment for their students. Using realia<\/a>, authentic objects from real life, in the classroom makes learning experiences more memorable and creates connections between the objects and language concepts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Teachers can also integrate games and activities in instruction, including with adult students, to help students relax, make learning fun, and provide low-stakes ways for students to apply their learning. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Find out more about using games in the adult ELT classroom. <\/a><\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n
7. Motivation and dedication<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
How long does it take to learn English? A lot of that also depends on the level of motivation and dedication a person brings to their language learning journey. A highly motivated person can significantly reduce the time required to learn a language. Consistent practice, a positive attitude, and a genuine desire to learn English can put a learner on the fast track to fluency.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Teachers can influence the motivation level of their students as well. Facilitating engaging classes, using realia, and instituting games and activities can make learning fun and inspire learners to give it their all. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
The GSE is another effective tool for motivation. The expanded language level scales show micro-learning progressions that can’t be seen in the shorter scale of the CEFR. Leveraging the GSE allows teachers and students to track and celebrate progress made toward the next CEFR level. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Lastly, teachers can also create opportunities for rewarding learning experiences. Acknowledging the progress of students through personalized verbal or written feedback, progress reports, and certificates and rewards builds confidence in students and increases their motivation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
- 2. Native language of the learner<\/a><\/li>
- 1. Prior language learning experience<\/a><\/li>
![\"class](\"https:\/\/bridge.edu\/languages\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/06\/monica-melton-oc_XTqWezp4-unsplash-1024x683.jpg\")