With more than 51% of student in the EU learning more than two foreign languages, the search for the most efficient and effective way of learning has been more serious than ever. Many studies been conducted to find the way the human mind best absorbs languages, and teachers are trying to find ways to better their students' language skills. What could possibly be this new technique that can make you a linguistic genius?

If you look at it this way, there are three ways of learning a language:

-You could take up language tuitions and learn the language through the understanding of its grammar and vocabulary

-You could learn the language though online language courses and apps

-Or you could take the very bold decision of relocating to a country where the language is spoken.

The first scenario is one that is quite effective but limiting. Although you do get to interact with somebody who properly speaks the language, it is very close-minded way to approach learning. Learning a language through purely language rules and memorisation cuts out the most important part of language-communication. Furthermore, it tends to become increasingly boring and tedious: you will end up having extensive grammar and vocabulary but it is likely that you will slowly start losing interest in learning any further out of the sheer boredom.

The second scenario is more interactive and convenient but still quite superficial. With the development of technology, apps such as Quizlet, Memrise and Duolingo are becoming the face of language learning. They offer an easily accessible and efficient method of learning that saves a lot of time. However, these apps do not provide human interaction. They cannot mimic body language or convey feelings- they are only useful for memorisation and rote learning.

The third scenario is one that not many people dare to try. Placing oneself in a situation where they know nothing and nobody and trying to figure everything out from scratch is a rigorous and dangerous way of learning. However, it must be said that is very effective, as he or she has no option but to adapt to the surrounding. In fact, that is how we all learnt out first languages- through watching and observing and then replicating.

To gain a new perspective on this matter, Eloise Holland, a Spanish student shares her ideas.

"I personally learn languages through regular practice but I also find that making friends who speak the language that you are learning is helpful. It helps you broaden your horizons and learn about new cultures whilst making new friend and having fun at the same time" 

So, what is the best way of learning? Well, there isn't really one- it's all three. It is proven that a language can be learnt fastest by a combination of all three ways of learning-learning in class, using apps to memorise vocabulary and experiencing daily life. By doing all three, you will be well on your way to linguistic perfection!

Shruti Cotra, Newstead Wood School