Reflection Paper #1
David Kim
30262888
david.kim123@richmond.edu
The most satisfying moment of language learning is when I succeed in using new expressions with native speakers. I still remember how my grandfather laughed at my “Gyongsa nanne”(‘It’s a feast’ in Korean). I was born in New Jersey to full-Korean parents. My family moved back to Korea, and my Korean was not fluent back at that time. When my grandparents visited us, they brought a lot of good-looking food. That was when I used the magic words, and it surprised all the adults. Interacting with other people through the new language material that I learned is the most enjoyable part for me.
In contrast, I did not like how I learned Chinese in high school, which was learning without any real experience. Our class would learn and repeat certain words and phrases each class. However, that method of studying was not helpful for me. I had no chance to actually use what I learned. After quizzes and tests on those materials, I would almost immediately forget all of what I studied. I have studied and memorized language for a short hurdle, not for myself. When I start my language learning at University of Richmond, I want to learn and study seriously to improve my language ability.
By taking the “What’s Your Learning Style?” survey, I got to know that I am a visual learner. I prefer learning through visual examples, such as graphs and images. It is much easier for me to understand and remember any concepts or materials by sight. A class that is instructed by a teacher who writes notes or shows visual materials were much more effective to learn. Also, that way of learning pulls out aspiration and interest inside me. When someone only provides oral explanations, the difficulty of the class or material becomes extremely higher. I usually keep my notes and studying process neat and clean as much as I can. I try to understand the important contents written in my notes by imagining them in my head. This helps me in the same way when I receive visual explanations. However, explaining to my peers is sometimes more helpful for my study. Using visuals, images, and examples is necessary when I explain to others too. As a visual learner, language learning activities related to visualizing suit my learning style. I used to use flashcards to memorize difficult English words when I studied for the ACT test back in high school. Visualizing what I hear or read is also an efficient way of learning. I usually take my own notes of keywords and ideas and color code what I learned.
Throughout my life, I had a passive attitude toward studying languages. I only followed the teacher's instructions and gave my least effort. So I naturally feel that I am lacking in the linguistic part of myself. It is also important to follow specific language learning activities. However, I realized that I should not only study to complete my realistic goals but also continue my learning even though it does not give me any credit. Beyond learning in a school course, I pledge to take an interest in my study progress and lead myself well.
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