Friday 29 October 2010

Learning by image association

It's been said that an image is worth a thousand words, but in this case, the authors hope it conveys one particular word. Some studies suggest that by creating an association between an impacting, even crazy picture, and a new word, it will be easier for the brain to recall new vocabulary, as the mind seems to remember images more easily than words. Here is an example.


Spanish Word of the Day




Does it work for you?

I think it is an interesting tool to experiment with, but I doubt that on its own will allow you to become proficient in a second language. Visual learners will probably gravitate towards this sort of of methodology and it can become the foundation for games and engaging language practise. Remember that everytime you learn a new word, it is helpful to use it in context as soon as posible, for the mind, as image-vias as it may be, is also hungry for meaning and personal reward. I think that if you can't see the uselfulness of the new word to your personal circumstances or goals, it will be less likely that your mind will consider it valuable enough to truly learn it.