- 11 Apr 2023
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How to learn a foreign language when you don't have time
Have you ever felt that you simply lack the time to learn a foreign language? Everyday life can often be so hectic and packed that it is difficult to make time for language learning. But don't worry, it is possible to learn a new foreign language effectively even with limited time. In this blog post, we will show you how you can manage that.
The challenges of language learning with limited time
Time is one of the most important resources we have. It can be all the more difficult to find this time to learn a new foreign language. But that doesn't mean you should give up. At the language school SLA Basel we have many students who successfully learn a foreign language, even if they have little time. With our proven methods and techniques, we help our students get the most out of their limited time.
Prioritisation and planning
If you want to learn a new foreign language, you need to set aside time for it. Therefore, take the time to define and prioritise your learning goals. Which language would you like to learn and which skills would you like to improve? Create a realistic schedule and set yourself goals that you want to achieve within a specific timeframe.
At SLA Basel we support our pupils in creating an individual learning plan that takes into account their personal needs and goals. We help you to prioritise your learning activities and provide you with the best possible learning strategy.
Effective learning methods
Effective language learning requires focus and dedication, but also an understanding of how to learn best. With limited time, it is important to choose the right learning methods to make studying as effective as possible. Here are some tips for optimising your learning:
- Focus on the essentials: if you have little time, focus on what is most important. Concentrate on core skills such as understanding conversations, reading and writing texts, or pronunciation.
- Microlearning: Instead of studying for long hours at a stretch, it can be useful to integrate short sessions into your daily routine. Try to schedule regular, brief study times to reinforce what you have learned.
- Use effective learning methods: There are many effective learning methods that can make learning easier and faster. For example, learning with flashcards or listening to podcasts in the target language.
Another possibility is applying the Pomodoro Technique, in which you work with concentration for 25 minutes, followed by a short break. Another effective learning method is so-called “chunking”, where you break larger concepts down into smaller, more digestible parts to make them easier to learn and remember.
Also the principle of “spaced repetition”, in which the learning of vocabulary or grammar rules is spread out over several days or weeks and repeated again and again, has proven to be extremely effective. At SLA Basel we offer a variety of learning methods to help you improve your language skills quickly and effectively.
Multitasking
Don’t have time to devote yourself exclusively to learning a language? No problem! Multitasking can be a great way to make the most of your time learnting a foreign language. For example, listen to language recordings or podcasts whilst you’re travelling by car or on public transport. Read books in the language you’re learning or watch films with subtitles. This way, you can integrate your learning into your everyday life.
Practical learning
Language learning goes far beyond reading textbooks and listening to audio recordings. Practical learning is essential to truly master a language. If you have little time for a foreign language, you should focus on practical activities that improve your language skills. For example, you can meet up with a language exchange partner to practice conversations. Or you can regularly attend language classes in your area to improve your language skills.
At SLA Basel we offer a variety of language courses tailored to the needs and schedules of our students. Whether you want to learn in short, intensive sessions or attend classes regularly – we have the right offer for you.
SLA Basel's partners include Tutor Academy, Kulturlegi, Eduqua, temptraining and SVEB FSEA.