You never know what happens next with Rosetta Stone Totale, an online program for learning foreign languages. You look, listen, repeat and go with new things as they happen. Everything takes place in the language you are learning.
While our memories fail us about acquiring American English—our native speech—the discoveries must have been similar to this. We stack square objects and someone says, “Let’s play blocks.” A big person reaches for you with the words, “Take my hand.” When crossing a street, you hear, “Watch out for cars!” You learn by seeing, listening and going with new things as they happen. Natural curiosity takes over.
So far, we have kept to the Japanese language course, not yet trying the online practice with a native speaker or the activities, including games. While you must pay attention, trying to memorize holds you back.
We now know enough to ask for water, tea, juice, a book or a newspaper. We are starting to recognize written words. If you try too hard, you get a stiff neck. If you look, listen and repeat, you pick up some of the language. This is better than a universal translator.
Star Trek VI—The Undiscovered Country.
Originally appeared in the On Our Minds blog at Village Hiker.
