More Tools for Learning Languages

Speaking of being plugged in as much as possible, but for a good cause...

Here is a good article from the NYTimes on tools for learning foreign languages. I mentioned a couple of posts ago that I am using Memrise to learn Swedish and Russian. If I didn't tell you before, what is nice about these apps (besides the fact that they are free and fun) is that they are developed using the latest research on brain function, how we really learn, etc. They gives you lots of visual cues to choose from, have you review at different intervals, etc.

Still not convinced you have time to learn a language? Here are some ideas for when you can use these apps.

1. When you would normally be texting your friends and family about TV shows.
2. When you would normally be playing one of those online games that sends ME notifications via Facebook telling me so and makes you look like you have a lot of time on your hands.
3. When you are waiting in line at the Grocery Store, Post Office, DMV, doctor's office/dentist, etc.
4. Before you go to bed at night.
5. While you are out walking your dog (don't trip)
6. In the bathroom (not in the shower or tub, please).
7. When you are waiting for your friend/relative/spouse who is always late.

See? You have more time than you thought! ;)

Have fun!
Buon Divertimento!
Amusez-vous bien!

PS Still don't have a smartphone or tablet? Please get one (doesn't have to be new, by the way, be a bottom-feeder like me and get the hand-me-downs of your early adopter friends),  but if you are desperately clinging to your Low Tech Identity, these apps normally have websites as well (if you are reading this I will assume you at least have a computer).

A Week Without Internet May have Positive Effect

I am not sure what it will be, of course, because going a week without internet was a complete nightmare for me (note: I was on vacation, so it wasn't a technology malfunction, just bad luck that the place I stayed had no wifi and my phone wasn't able to Roam). I found no solace in it, no clarity, no joy. I just felt like I do the first 15 minutes of every day before I put my contacts in-- Like there is a lot happening out there, but I just can't effing see it. Infuriating!

I understand the merits of unplugging once in a while. I also think that it is worthwhile to break addictions to news apps like the BBC and NYTimes (I took them off my phone. The iPad still has BBC but I try to check only once a day).

But not even being able to take a little peek at email or share a photo once in a while is FOR THE BIRDS!

That being said, I have decided to unplug a bit each day (I write to you now just as I should be unplugged, but isn't writing about unplugging just as good as the real thing?) for planning.

Yes, planning.
Organizing.
Prioritizing.

And you know what? That is a drag, too. Much less fun than constant distraction.
But I am sure it will eventually have a positive effect too.

I will keep you posted.