How to avoid becoming a hobbyist and master the language (For those who learn English with YouTube like me)
Are you one of the 99% of people who have subscribed to a YouTube channel about learning English but will never actually master the language? If so, you’re not alone. Many people turn to YouTube for both entertainment and education. (Attention: this might be passive language learning!) But when it comes to learning a foreign language, it’s important to learn in an active way. In this post, we’ll explore the truth about learning English on YouTube and offer some tips on how to avoid becoming a hobbyist and truly master the language.
The danger of becoming a passive learner = passive learning
When you subscribe to a language learning channel on YouTube, it’s easy to fall into a passive mindset where you’re simply waiting to be taught (spoonfed). This is especially true if you’re used to watching English learning videos for entertainment, where you’re waiting for the next episode. However, this is the wrong approach to take if you want to learn a foreign language. As also Vladimir Skenderoff, the creator of the YouTube channel “Virtually Native” points out in his video “99% of you will not learn English unless …” the moment you subscribe to an education-focused channel is the moment you become a hobbyist. Instead of actively learning and seeking out new resources, you’re simply waiting for the next piece of advice or lesson to be delivered to you.
The importance of context (context is king)
One of the biggest problems with learning a foreign language through YouTube videos is the lack of context. It’s difficult to remember new words, phrases, and grammar rules if you don’t have a real-life context in which to use them. This is why reading is such an important part of language learning. When you read, you’re exposed to a wide range of vocabulary and grammar in the context of a story or article, which helps you remember and understand the language better. Additionally, reading allows you to see how native speakers use the language in real-life situations, giving you a better sense of how to communicate effectively in English. Granted, sometimes depending on the type of the video, it can also show you situations, which are similar to real-life situations.
How to succeed in learning English
So, if you want to succeed in learning English, what should you do?
First and foremost, it’s important to adopt an active mindset or let’s better call it an active learning style. Rather than passively waiting to be taught, take the initiative and seek out resources that will help you learn. This might mean reading books or articles, watching videos about your hobbies and interests, or even taking a class. Additionally, try to immerse yourself in the language as much as possible. Listen to music, watch movies, and practice speaking with native or non-native speakers. The more you expose yourself to English, the faster you’ll pick it up.
Conclusion
Learning English on YouTube can be a fun and convenient way to improve your language skills, but it’s important to remember that it’s only one piece of the puzzle. To truly master the language, you need to become an active learner and find resources that will help you learn and grow. Whether you’re reading books, watching videos about your hobbies and interests, or immersing yourself in the language, the key is to be proactive and take control of your own learning journey. With the right approach and a bit of dedication, you can succeed in learning English and join the ranks of those who have truly mastered the language. Good luck to you!