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BRAVE Blog

The Multilingual Is The Political: How Language Learners Can Make a Difference

crossroads

There is no way I could write a different post today. The election results made me angry, frustrated and motivated at the same time. The thing I know best – foreign languages – turns out to be a political device, as powerful as any other. If you think you’re only learning a foreign language for fun, move on – but it you agree that things can change when languages are shared and used, I’d love to hear your thoughts.

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BRAVE Blog

Google Helpouts: 3 Obvious Uses (and 1 Brave idea) for Language Learning

google helpout foreign language learningI had a Google Hangout last week. This was a first! It was work-related and had a lot to do with language learning. Soon afterwards, I found out about Helpouts – a brand new idea for hangouts. Can language learners use Helpouts effectively? I think there are at least three good answers – and one brave concept!

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BRAVE Blog

Guerrilla French Language Learning Update: High Input, Low Output

3 language learning methodsSome time ago, I announced a brave and cunning plan: to learn French in 30 days without spending a penny. All foreign language learners should probably know better – but my anxiety and motivation pushes me on. Here’s a quick update on my French learning methods!

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BRAVE Blog

5:2 your language learning: Intermittent Mothertongue Fasting

language learning and diets - the benefits of intermittent language learning

If you were looking for a connection between language learning and diets, this could be your lucky day. And if you weren’t – this article may just make you think about the benefits of reducing your dependence on your first language. Both outcomes are fine by me, and hopefully will be inspiring for the language students out there!

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BRAVE Blog

The Gap and the Work: Disappointment and Taste in Learning Foreign Languages

 

I’ve admired and enjoyed the work of Ira Glass for a long time. When I recently heard his thoughts on creativity, my respect for what he does became even bigger – and I got inspired to think about language learning in several new ways. Read (and watch) on for more – and join the discussion!

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BRAVE Blog

If Music Be the Language Course, Play On: 4 Spotify Apps to Tune Up Your Language

Spotify used to be something I scoffed at – a nice way to enjoy music every now and then, but little else. Recently, though, it got a lot more awesome, and several of its features would make every serious language learner pay attention. Have a look at four of those and see if they appeal to you!