During the last few weeks, I have combined reliable, go-to learning strategies and new learning experiments that have been both engaging and effective.
I have continued with my regular scheduled meetings with my language partner once or twice a week. Our format of mixing casual Korean conversation with structured note taking has been very beneficial. I am able to practice my Korean conversation skills with my partner during meetings, and then later able to review notes throughout the week so as not to forget newly acquired vocabulary and phrases. We have practiced discussed common everyday topics such as food or family that I am certain to run into in any conversation. I am hoping that these weekly conversations will help me be more comfortable speaking in Korean with my Korean speaking friends. I believe that Korean conversations are already slightly less difficult for me, although my speaking fluency remains far from my goal.
Recently my partner and I started incorporating YouTube videos into our learning. Recently, I watched Sponge Bob dubbed in Korean, which proved to be a surprisingly useful tool. Unlike more complex dramas or movies, SpongeBob uses simple, everyday language in a shorter format that makes the learning process more entertaining and enjoyable.
I also had the opportunity to travel to Northern Virginia on a cultural day trip with other students of the SDLC program. It was very interesting to experience authentic Korean culture in a majority Korean area, just minutes away from Washington DC. Stores and restaurants in many cases seemed straight out of Korea.
Comments
Hey Henry! I am really glad that you are getting more comfortable with having casual Korean conversations! I think the best way to gain speaking skills is to constantly practice with a friend or a partner. Watching Sponge Bob in Korean is actually really funny. I grew up watching Sponge Bob only in Korean so it is weirder to watch them in English. Keep the hard work going!
Your dedication to combining proven learning methods with innovative approaches is truly inspiring! It's fantastic to hear how your regular language partner meetings have evolved into such a dynamic learning experience, blending casual conversation with structured note-taking to reinforce your Korean skills effectively.