Maximizing Your Learning Potential: 6 Techniques to Help You Succeed

Lessons from Second-Language Acquisition That Can Benefit Any Learner

Over the past 10 weeks, I have been learning one of the most difficult languages in the world, Albanian. With considerable linguistic differences from English, Albanian is classified by the Foreign Language Institute as a Tier-III or ‘hard language’. For the average English speaker, Albanian requires almost double the effort to learn Spanish, French, or Italian.

Following this intense experience, I reflected on what the unique experience of second language acquisition can teach us more generally about independent learning and how to be better leaners outside of the classroom. While learning Albanian, I identified 6 lessons that are universally applicable to any other topic.

1. Find Your ‘Why’

Spoken by around 5 million people, mostly in the Balkans, Albanian may not seem like the most practical language to learn. As an American, learning Spanish or French might seem like a more useful choice. However, I decided to spend over 300 hours in a classroom learning Albanian because I knew that it would be critical for my integration, professional success, and even basic survival while living and working in Albania for the next two years as a Peace Corps volunteer.

However, finding your “why” is an important aspect of learning any new skill or topic. Your “why” is a clear vision of what benefits this new knowledge will bring to your life. It’s an internalized motivation that can provide energy and enthusiasm for your learning experience. When I found myself struggling to stay motivated while learning Albanian, I reminded myself of the ways that this new language would bring enrichment to my personality, friendships, and work. This helped me to keep going and stay focused on my goals.

But, having a clear “why” can be a powerful motivator when learning anything new. Whether you’re learning a language, a new skill, or a new subject, finding your “why” can help you to stay motivated, focused, and energized as you work towards your goals.

2. Find Your System

Research suggests that learning, particularly language acquisition, involves both active and passive components. For active learning, review notes using a flashcard system or engage in rote memorization which can be helpful daily practices. For passive learning, while learning Albanian, I found it useful to watch the news, listen to music, or spend time in public settings listening to native speakers talk. These activities can be more effective than an hour in the classroom.

The same is true for independent learning. It’s important to find a system that works for you and to stick with it at regular intervals. When your brain is feeling full, try to make your learning experience more enjoyable. You might consider incorporating your interests into your learning activities to make them more engaging. Overall, finding a balance between active and passive learning and finding ways to make learning fun can be helpful strategies for language acquisition and other forms of learning.

3. Make Small Gains

Albanians often use the phrase “avash-avash,” which means “little by little” in English. This phrase has become a mantra for me, reminding me to approach difficult topics with a focus on small gains. When learning a new language or any new subject, it’s important to trust the process and trust yourself, even when it feels challenging. Most things worth learning are difficult, and it’s important to remember that making small gains every day can add up to significant progress over time. The power of tiny gains can take you far, so don’t be discouraged by the challenges you may face along the way. Just keep making progress, little by little, and you will eventually achieve mastery of the topic.

4. Don’t Make Comparisons

It’s important not to compare yourself to others when learning something new, whether it’s in a classroom setting or elsewhere. It’s natural for some people to be more gifted at learning, and others may be slower to grasp new concepts. Making comparisons can lead to discouragement, so it’s important to focus on your own progress and celebrate your own achievements.

Don’t be shy about participating in your learning and asking questions, even if it means feeling vulnerable or stepping outside of your comfort zone. It’s okay to admit when you don’t understand something, and speaking up can help you to clarify your understanding and make progress. Others may also benefit from your willingness to ask questions and seek out knowledge.

Overall, the learning process can be challenging, but with persistence, the benefits of knowledge and skills you gain will far outweigh any social costs you may face. So be courageous in your learning, and don’t be afraid to speak up and ‘fight for your knowledge’.

5. Don’t Expect Perfection

Learning something new can sometimes feel like navigating in the dark or losing one of your senses. In the beginning, you may struggle to express yourself accurately, and, in the case of language-learning, native speakers may seem confused by your attempts. Don’t be discouraged by this. Keep trying and practice whenever you can. Many people are generally very pleased to see someone trying to speak their language and are often welcoming and willing to help in conversations.

Remember that the learning process is a marathon, not a sprint. It takes time and consistent practice to make progress. If you stick with it and take advantage of every opportunity to practice, you will eventually reach a point where your skills even out and you feel more confident and proficient. Don’t give up, and keep working towards your goals.

6. Immerse Yourself

One of the great benefits of learning is the opportunity it provides to connect with others. In my experience, learning Albanian in Albania has allowed me to make new friends, order new foods, and understand conversations from a different perspective. Whatever topic you’re learning, try to find ways to immerse yourself in it. This could mean joining a club or finding other ways to engage with the subject on a deeper, more personally engaging level.

I wish you all the best in your learning journey. Paç fat!