This
spring, I have scored 100 points (getting the best grade) at Tietokantojen
perusteet course (Digital Education For All in Finnish and English: https://mooc.fi/) - my first theoretical course that I have
completed in Finnish fully (thesis seminar with writing in English and defense
in Finnish does not count). It was a great, even though a bit stressful
experience, and I am happy to share my tips on learning in a second foreign
language.
- Activate your memory in a different ways.
When trying
to take a course in a second foreign language, try to start from courses not
too much out of comfort zone to avoid too much stress. However, it is important
that you are going to learn something new - otherwise you may feel bored and
consider a course a bit more like usual language class than a challenging
tasks. Make sure that deadlines are realistic, and if possible, do not involve
too much essay writing, as that may be a bit more challenging.
When it
actually comes to learning new stuff, I would definitely recommend keeping a
balance between electronic notes and paper notes - this way you make your
knowledgebase easily accessible for the future reference, and at the same
activate memore better when writing by hands.
- Mind maps for new vocabulary!
I used paper
notes mostly to make mind maps of interrelations between different terms, and
to also make references to these terms in English. I was taking an online exam
in the end of the course, so mind maps supported me a lot in quick reference.
- Activate your peer support.
The best
learning experience comes also from actively participating in learning
environment discussions (we had Moodle for it) and peer support groups
(Telegram channel). Such communication helps you to learn how to form questions
clearly, precisely and fast - the skill
that you would definitely need throughout your study and work life. Also, by
explaining things to others, in person or in writing, helps you to remember the
new stuff faster.
- Do not put too much pressure on yourself.
If you are
taking some courses in Finnish/other second foreign language, and these courses
are not a compulsory part of your degree, remember that the process is more
important than result. Even if you are
not able to complete all deadlines on time or finish the course due to schedule
changes, you anyway receive the completely new language learning experience!
Questions or ideas about next blog posts? Drop me a
message at #startyourFinnish
Facebook page.