How to Choose a Beginner's Spanish Course

First of all take a moment and think of the times you have enjoyed learning experiences. Times where you felt you were actually having a good time and learning was secondary. This is what happens when you are learning in a style or mode which you unconsciously prefer. Were you being shown how to do something? Were you being taught orally, you being an avid listener? Were you participating in a task or project? If you can pinpoint your favourite mode of learning then it can be used effectively to elevate your Spanish learning experience.

A visual learner will absorb much more information if specific activities and tasks are given within a learning environment. Tasks such as looking at charts and graphs, visualising the whole picture or the intended outcome of a project before beginning. If this is you then it would be a good idea to put up cards at home of new words and phrases in Spanish, read lots of Spanish material paying particular attention to sentence structure and verb endings and use colour coding to help with conjugations.

An auditory learner will much prefer to listen to instructions or guided tuition to help absorb more information. It is wise for this type of person to use audio cd's to help with Spanish learning. These can be listened to while pottering around the house, taking a bath, driving or just relaxing at home. Music is also a good way to connect with the language, try listening to Spanish music or even children's Spanish songs. I found this a great way to learn in the beginning, the catchy tunes taught me quite a bit of vocabulary.

A kinaesthetic learner will typically be a very physical person, preferring the 'hands on' approach with anything he or she undertakes. a great resource for this style is on of the fantastic online courses available where there is a high level of interaction and the facility to take the lead in one's own learning. Another good example is to use exercise books in grammar and verb conjugations and write things down while learning. This too will help with absorbing more information.

Of course, we may have one prominent style but incorporate others, the secret is to try identifying the primary style. A good idea is to find another learner with the same style to practice with on a regular basis as there will be a mutual understanding.

Tipsnn* Before spending money on a course, think for a second and ask yourself if it fits your learning style.
* Read up and familiarise yourself with the concept of learning styles.
* Take a look at kids learning styles as researchers have found adults display similar.
* Have Fu

Eleanor Ross is webmaster of http://www.learn-spanish-with-ease.com and a mother to two boys. She has been learning Spanish for around 3 years. Visit http://www.learn-spanish-with-ease.com for tips and advice on courses and learning methods.