Millions of people all over the world speak Spanish, making it one of the most valuable skills that a person can have. There are several different ways to get that skill, and most people find that one of them fits their needs much better than the others. The trick is finding the way that works for you, whether than means going to learn Spanish in Spain or attending a local Spanish school, and then putting in enough time and effort to get good at the language.
Immersion Schooling
Many people find that the best way to master the language is to learn Spanish in Spain at a dedicated Spanish school. Studying in Spain offers the kind of constant immersion in the language that can only come from being surrounded by people who are using it. Not only does this provide constant practice, it also offers a chance to hear Spanish as it is spoken by natives in their daily lives. Since slang terms and casual language can change very quickly, it’s almost impossible to get that sort of education from a book.
The second advantage comes from access to skilled teachers. They can answer questions and resolve any confusion, which can be difficult for people who are studying from books or films without access to someone who can explain things in a new way. The structure of a school can also prevent procrastination and frustration that can stop people from completing their studies.
Books and Films
Some people, especially children and young adults, can learn new languages through simple exposure to films and other media that is written in that language. Most people who learn Spanish with this method watch Spanish movies or telenovelas with English subtitles turned on. Some people also read Spanish books next to an English translation. The people who get the best results usually mix the two methods.
The people who can learn with this method get many of the advantages of immersion in the comfort of their own homes. If they feel that watching a movie is more fun than studying out of a textbook, they are also less likely to get discouraged. However, many people are incapable of using this method, so it isn’t right for everyone.
Textbooks
Reading an old textbook is the classic way to learn Spanish without attending classes. It requires plenty of discipline, but it does provide a chance to set your own pace. The downside is that a textbook can’t answer questions, and it’s easy to get frustrated and abandon your studies. People who have the discipline to persevere and have studied other languages can often succeed with this, but it tends to be challenging for many other people.