Learning Journal 1

I have studied French since I was five years old, so my initial acquisition of the language I do not remember. I don't have any experience comparable to this one, where I will start from scratch. However, in an effort to improve my French, I have taken higher level classes in high school and university. I love to speak French, especially with native speakers who can help me improve my accent and vocabulary through exposure. I really didn't enjoy taking French in a classroom setting, though. It was a great opportunity and helped me a lot (except the accent), but was a bit like pulling teeth. I don't like learning a language out of a textbook. The cultures of French-speaking peoples I would rather experience myself. The descriptions in the text seemed inauthentic and forced. Also, I find I cannot retain even the grammar I learn in class. I speak mostly instinctively, but I made a real effort to learn proper grammar rules (especially for writing) in the last class I took. Now, only a year later, I already can barely recall them.

The multiple intelligences test wasn't helpful at all. I am a nature learner, and the suggestions are mostly not possible. I cannot go hiking in the Iranian countryside. Working in the garden was one of the suggestions. I can't think of a way to use that to learn Farsi.

The FIRE model, on the other hand, was very helpful. I am mostly an "Insightful" learner, though I have many qualities of "Factual" and "Rational." Even without being restricted to a primary category, however, the model points out some great ways to learn. I was able to look at what I do and don't enjoy in a learning environment in a cogent manner. From the Factual category, I see that I should maybe start with learning written language before jumping into culture. From the Insightful category, I know to look for exercises that is based on problem-solving and includes opportunity for multiple opinions/debate. From the Rational category, I recognize the advantage for me of self-directed learning, which will allow me to pursue those aspects of Farsi I find intriguing and inspiring.
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