ALG & Outputting: David Long explains the hows, whens, and whys of outputting in ALG

Name: ALG & Outputting: David Long explains the hows, whens, and whys of outputting in ALG
Uploaded: 2023-04-15T18:01:33.000Z
Duration: 5 h 44 min 16 s

Introduction

In this section, the speaker introduces the topic of outputting and explains that they will be discussing it in detail.

Outputting

The speaker introduces the topic of outputting and mentions that they have received a lot of questions about it.

They explain that there are many little details about outputting that they would like to discuss.

Starting to Speak

In this section, the speaker discusses how starting to speak works in ALG.

Starting to Speak

The speaker explains that in ALG, people listen before they start speaking.

They compare this process to a string attached from zero to a point where you get to where you naturally start speaking.

The length of time it takes for someone to start speaking varies from person to person.

The speaker notes that children also go through a similar process before they start speaking.

Speaking Development

In this section, the speaker talks about when people typically start speaking and how it can vary.

Speaking Development

The average age worldwide for people to start speaking is around 21 months.

However, some people may start speaking as early as 18 months or as late as 36 months.

The speaker emphasizes that no one is born speaking and everyone goes through a listening phase before starting to speak.

Speaking Progression

In this section, the speaker discusses their personal experience with learning how to speak using ALG.

Speaking Progression

After 13 months of classes in the ALG program, the speaker's speaking was almost non-existent.

It took them two and a half years after finishing classes before they felt comfortable communicating freely in Thai.

While their language wasn't perfect at first, they were able to communicate and improvise their own sentences.

The speaker notes that it's normal for people to struggle to understand someone who is still learning a language.

Learning Environment

In this section, the speaker talks about the importance of real-life situations for learning how to speak a language.

Learning Environment

The speaker believes that real-life situations where speaking is required are more important than classes for learning how to speak a language.

They note that being in a classroom can be negative because you're being compared to others.

Ideally, people should spend time listening and then get into situations where speaking can occur naturally with friends or other native speakers.

Creating Value by Getting Input

In this section, the speaker discusses how creating value is not about filling a spot but rather getting input. They also talk about the importance of getting quality input and how it can be used later on.

Getting Input

Creating value is not about filling a spot.

The first step is to get input.

There needs to be stimulus for the input to be automatically used later on.

Quality of Input

The quality of the recording of the input is important.

Listening to thousands of hours of language helps in having a map of the language in one's head.

However, if there are no Thai friends or family members around, then language naturally emerging and evolving through conversation and interaction with other people will not take place as it should.

Interference and Quality Input

In this section, the speaker talks about interference and how it affects learning. They also discuss how taking breaks from learning can actually increase learning ability.

Interference

The process of getting input needs to be conducted in a way that will affect output later on.

Taking more than 2 to 3 hours a day for listening produces higher learning ability.

Time away from learning actually increases learning ability.

Breaks from Learning

Taking breaks from learning allows for integration or digestion to happen in one's brain which increases their ability to listen and understand during that time away.

After taking a break, one can come back at a higher level without any additional input.

Processing Input for Speaking Ability

In this section, the speaker talks about processing input when it comes to speaking ability. They discuss how even after listening for a year solid, the brain is still processing what it has taken in.

Processing Input

After listening for a year solid, the brain is still processing what it has taken in.

There are two or three things happening when one starts to speak after listening for a long time.

The brain is still processing what it has taken in.

The Gap Between Input and Output

In this section, the speaker discusses the gap between what is in your head and what comes out of your mouth. This gap exists in terms of vocabulary, grammar, and phonetics.

Development Takes Time

There is a gap between what you have heard and taken in, and what comes out of your mouth.

This gap exists in terms of vocabulary, grammar, and phonetics.

It takes time to develop the ability to accurately express what is clearly in your head.

Adjusting to Line Up

You compare what's in your head with what's coming out of your mouth.

You need to adjust until it lines up correctly.

Taking Breaks for Language Learning

In this section, the speaker talks about taking breaks while learning a language.

Importance of Taking Breaks

The process of connecting the language part of the brain with language muscles requires input and integration.

Taking breaks is important no matter how much you're doing consistently.

A schedule shift-up can be a healthy thing.

Staying Fresh

Making changes to schedules can help stay fresh.

Changing up what you're doing by traveling or experiencing new things can also help stay fresh.

Interference During Input vs. Output Emergence

In this section, the speakers discuss interference during input versus output emergence.

Processing Happens Regardless

The processing of language is happening whether you take a break or not.

Output emergence is usually us trying to make something happen on the speaking side of it.

Importance of Input

Input interference can occur when we don't have enough input.

It's important to focus on input before output.

Speaking and Interference

In this section, the speaker discusses the process of speaking and how interference can affect it.

Speaking Process

Speaking automatically takes place in an environment where you are comfortable.

It is important to interject sentences without pre-thought to improve your understanding of what's happening.

The output that comes out automatically without pre-thought is part of the process, whether right or wrong.

Early on, natural flow is limited but it improves with practice.

Interference

Interference happens when conscious thought is used to do what the brain already does unconsciously.

Don't try to work everything out while speaking. If you can hear it and know it, say it. Keep listening if you don't know it yet.

This section provides insights into the process of speaking and how interference can affect it. The speaker emphasizes the importance of practicing speaking without pre-thought and avoiding interference by not trying to work everything out while speaking.

Learning a Language through Listening

In this section, the speaker talks about how he learned a language through listening and how it helped him avoid interference. He also discusses how once he settled into this method of learning, he never broke out of it.

Learning Through Listening

The speaker was sold on the idea of interference and believed that his brain could work out a language better than any other method.

It took three months of listening before the speaker got settled into this method.

Once he settled into it, he never broke out of it for the rest of his life.

This method is lower stress and yields better results.

Common Problems in Language Learning

In this section, the speaker discusses common problems that occur during language learning and whether they fall under the umbrella of interference or not.

Interference vs Other Problems

Not all problems in language learning are due to interference.

Certain characteristics in one's speaking style can carry over when learning a second language.

Examples include being harsh, stuttering, or always feeling like you have to explain everything.

These characteristics may not be culturally prevalent but are related to personality.

Language and Culture

In this section, the speaker talks about how language and culture are related to personality.

Personality vs Culture

The speaker does not think of culture and language separately but believes there is a certain personality that isn't culturally prevalent.

Some aspects of culture could be considered more related to personality such as being direct or beating around the bush.

The differences between German and Thai culture tend towards the German side according to the speaker.

Language Learning and Culture

The discussion explores the relationship between language learning and culture, with a focus on how deeper levels of culture are more difficult to learn than superficial aspects. The conversation also touches on the impact of living in a foreign country for an extended period of time.

Language Learning and Culture

Language learning is a superficial aspect of culture, while mannerisms and ways of thought are deeper levels that take more input to learn.

If someone were raised in America speaking only English and then thrown into an African village where they lived for the rest of their life, would their mannerisms and thought processes still be European or greatly changed towards the way the village does things?

Living in a foreign country for an extended period can change one's perspective on their home country.

Shadowing as a Language Learning Technique

The speakers discuss shadowing as a language learning technique, defining it as repeating sentences with a recording immediately after or even simultaneously. They explore its potential benefits and drawbacks.

Shadowing as a Language Learning Technique

Shadowing is repeating sentences with a recording immediately after or even simultaneously.

It is used to mimic someone's accent by listening to them speak clearly.

Recreation in listening is powerful because it allows people to listen actively instead of just thinking about what they will say next.

The speakers question why someone would want to use shadowing as a language learning technique.

Shadowing and Language Acquisition

In this section, the speakers discuss shadowing as a language learning technique and how it can help with pronunciation, intonation, and vocabulary acquisition. They also compare it to natural language acquisition and discuss the role of immersion in language learning.

Shadowing as a Language Learning Technique

Shadowing is a technique where learners imitate the pronunciation and intonation of native speakers by mimicking an audio recording.

The goal of shadowing is to imprint perfect grammar and improve overall language ability.

Parroting creates good parody but may not have an impact on natural flow sense.

Natural Language Acquisition vs. Immersion

Children do not have all the proper grammar in place when they start speaking in natural language settings. Grammar deepens as they gain more experience.

Native speakers acquire their language through input and time, which naturally brings them to whatever their input is.

Accent, pronunciation, vocabulary usage, and everything about the language comes from the environment they are in.

There are cases of native speakers doing shadowing to improve their accent or pronunciation.

Efficiency of Shadowing

The efficiency of shadowing compared to natural language acquisition is unclear. It requires investing a lot of time on top of already investing time for input and natural interaction.

Listening can provide everything needed in the brain to speak fluently. Speaking requires putting what has been learned into practice.

Learning a Language

In this section, the speaker discusses his approach to learning a language and emphasizes the importance of being part of experiences to acquire language.

The Logic of Learning a Language

The speaker believes in using his own logic to learn a language.

He thinks that trying to repeat someone else's approach is not effective unless one wants to give a speech or sing a song.

Optimizing Acquisition Process

To acquire language, being part of experiences where the language is used is the most efficient way.

Language acquisition happens when one understands what is going on in an experience where the language is used.

Having multiple sources for input helps broaden one's language capability.

Optimizing Acquisition Process

In this section, the speaker talks about optimizing the acquisition process for learning a new language.

Importance of Input

Getting input from native speakers is crucial for acquiring a new language.

Having 20 Thai people giving input in Thai can help one acquire the Thai language faster.

Avoiding Active Control

Taking active control of the process may not be necessary as it can hinder long-term results.

Being lazy and letting things happen naturally can produce better long-term results.

The Importance of Letting Go of Control in Language Learning

In this section, the speaker discusses the importance of letting go of control in language learning and trusting nature to produce results.

Active Control and Fear

Many people are afraid to let go of control when it comes to language learning.

This fear stems from a lack of examples of people who have successfully learned a language using this method.

Trusting Nature

To learn a language effectively, one must have faith in the process and trust nature.

Trying to take control of the process can hinder progress.

Examples and Numbers

There are many examples all over the world of people successfully learning languages through natural methods.

The speaker estimates that around 90% of their program's students combined their studies with something else.

Around 16,000 students were recorded in their program, but not all completed it.

Personal Goals

The focus should be on what each individual wants to gain from a language learning program rather than following a strict method.

Assessing Student Goals

In this section, the speaker discusses how they assess student goals and the challenges of evaluating the value of their program to students.

Majority of Students' Goals

The majority of students were interested in being able to get around, do some shopping, interact with friends, go out for dinner, and attend gym or other activities.

Their goal was not necessarily to become fluent in the future.

Evaluating Program Value

It is difficult to assess the value of the program to students without understanding their goals.

Only about 10% of students became committed and interested in what they were doing for the long haul.

It would be great to have a cohort of motivated individuals who are willing to become near-native speakers and track them over five years.

Examples of Successful Language Learners

In this section, the speaker talks about examples of successful language learners and how comprehensible input can help people achieve fluency.

Lack of Examples

People often ask where examples are when it comes to comprehensible input methods.

There are now a few examples available on the internet from people who have achieved fluency using comprehensible input methods.

Importance of Comprehensible Input

Comprehensible input can help people achieve fluency even if they only speak one or two languages.

If more people use comprehensible input methods with a goal towards becoming near-native speakers, there will be more examples available online.

Program Overview

In this section, the speaker provides an overview of their language program.

Program Details

At its height, the program offered 800,000 student hours a day across seven different levels throughout every day of the week.

The Obstacles of Being Known Online

In this section, the speaker discusses the challenges of being known online and how it is still a madhouse. There is a generational difference that makes it difficult to determine if it's worth spending time on.

Challenges of Being Known Online

It was dangerous to be known online in the past.

It is still a madhouse today.

Generational differences make it difficult to determine if it's worth spending time on.

Is It Worth Spending Time on Social Media?

In this section, the speaker talks about whether or not it's worth spending time on social media. He explains that it's only worth the time if you have something to sell and with this method.

Worthiness of Spending Time on Social Media

Only worth the time if you have something to sell.

Not recommended for those who are not interested in becoming an internet personality.

Show Off Innate in Language Learning

In this section, the speaker discusses how show off is innate in language learning and how people feel smarter when they know more languages than others.

Show Off Innate in Language Learning

Knowing multiple languages can make people feel smarter than others.

Ego plays a huge role in language learning.

Letting Go and Getting Out of Your Own Way

In this section, the speaker talks about letting go and getting out of your own way when learning a new language.

Letting Go and Getting Out of Your Own Way

Stop trying too hard and get out of your own way.

Your brain can do it automatically.

It's hard to take credit for the results when it's an innate ability.

Compliments on Language Skills

In this section, the speaker talks about how compliments on language skills can feel ridiculous because it wasn't about them.

Compliments on Language Skills

Compliments on language skills can feel ridiculous.

It wasn't about the person receiving the compliment.

The best people in the program who gained the best results were a group of Swedes.

Detachment from Effort and Taking Control

In this section, the speaker discusses detachment from effort and taking control when learning a new language.

Detachment from Effort and Taking Control

Catch-22 paradox of consciously willing to learn a new language.

Interference starts with conscious effort.

Get interested in what's happening around you.

Learning Thai in Thailand

In this section, the speaker talks about learning Thai in Thailand using a method that allowed him to be there but not be involved.

Learning Thai in Thailand

Found a method where he could buzz out and not be involved.

The best people who gained great results were a group of Swedes who didn't care about learning Thai.

They were still engaged with the content.

Natural Language Acquisition

The speaker discusses the importance of natural language acquisition and how it can be achieved through interesting experiences. They also mention the effectiveness of online teaching methods.

Importance of Interesting Experiences in Language Learning

Natural language acquisition can be achieved by providing interesting experiences.

Pablo, a language teacher, is skilled at providing such experiences.

Watching Spanish lessons with Pablo has made the speaker's son interested in learning Spanish.

Challenges in Creating Natural Opportunities for Output

Creating natural opportunities for output is a challenge.

Virtual reality spaces and avatars could be used to create more natural interactions between learners and native speakers.

Connecting with Thai people who want to improve their English could also provide opportunities for conversation practice.

Challenges in Speaking After Listening Only

The speaker discusses the challenges of speaking after listening only and how it differs from natural language acquisition.

Challenge of Speaking After Listening Only

Listening without speaking is not natural for adults.

When you train yourself not to speak, it becomes difficult to start speaking later on.

It takes effort to open up that space again for speaking.

Simulating Natural Language Acquisition

The speaker addresses concerns about simulating natural language acquisition through online content.

Concerns About Simulating Natural Language Acquisition

Some people question whether simulating natural language acquisition through online content is truly effective.

While there may be differences between simulated input and real-life input, the goal is still to provide interesting experiences that lead to natural language acquisition.

Language Development and Natural Process

In this section, the speaker discusses language development and the natural process of learning a language. He talks about how he and his son are learning Spanish and how it is important to let the natural process work.

Replicating the Natural Process

The more we can replicate the natural process of language development, the better results we get.

It's important to let things come out naturally without interference.

Learning a New Language

When learning a new language, it's important to start expressing yourself as soon as possible.

Even if you don't know everything yet, it's okay to make mistakes and learn from them.

Interference in Language Learning

In this section, the speaker talks about interference in language learning and how effort does not always lead to better results.

Ceiling vs Effort

Interference is what happens when trying to learn a new language.

Effort does not always lead to better results in language learning.

Example of Adult Students Learning English

A group of adult students who wanted to improve their English had issues even with effort because interference still occurred.

[t=1:17:21s] The Effectiveness of Language Classes

In this section, the speakers discuss the effectiveness of language classes and whether they are helpful in learning a new language.

Class Helpfulness

One speaker mentions that they found taking a language class helpful, but questions whether it was helpful for another person.

The other speaker notes that there is a lot of research on the topic and that the fact that it is a huge issue testifies to its existence. They argue that denying its importance is not productive.

Both speakers agree that language classes can be controversial and unhelpful for some people.

Motivation

One speaker argues that telling someone they will get better results with one method over another is not necessarily motivating. People who are already motivated will seek out what works best for them, while those who are not motivated will not be convinced to change tracks.

The other speaker agrees, noting that they came into learning Thai with an open mind and were willing to try anything.

[t=1:20:02s] Corrections Through Acquisition vs Teaching

In this section, the speakers discuss whether corrections in language learning should be acquired or taught.

Acquiring Corrections

One speaker asks about the idea of acquiring corrections instead of being taught them directly.

The other speaker responds by saying that if you catch mistakes during the acquisition process before they become ingrained habits, then corrections can be made more easily. They note that playing around with connections between words can help learners recognize similarities and differences in tone.

Playing with Language

The speakers note that playing with language can be fun for learners, especially when making connections between words that they haven't connected before. However, this can also be frustrating if it interferes with communication.

[t=1:21:30s] Recognizing Similar Sounding Words

In this section, the speakers discuss recognizing similar sounding words in a new language.

One speaker asks whether recognizing meaningful words that sound the same but have different meanings is interference.

The other speaker responds by saying that it could be interference or simply the way the adult brain works. They note that when hearing a word with a certain tone, the meaning of that word automatically comes to mind.

Interference and Acquisition Process

The speakers discuss how interference or not enough listening can affect tone recognition. They also talk about the acquisition process and how some people ask children to say certain words to give feedback on their natural language acquisition.

Tone Recognition and Interference

If you have to stop and think which tone it is, that's a result of interference or just not enough listening.

Kids will turn almost all of that kind of language into a game for themselves.

Generally speaking, kids don't like to be showcased.

Natural Language Acquisition

Some people ask children to say certain words like "Dad" or "Uncle" to give feedback on their natural language acquisition.

Adults often turn these types of questions into games for kids, but it depends on the age and personality of the child.

Near-Native Accent

The speakers discuss whether everyone can achieve a near-native accent in a foreign language if they minimize interference and have sufficient input and interaction.

Achieving Near-Native Accent

Assuming interference is minimized and there is enough input and interaction, everyone can achieve a near-native accent in a foreign language.

The speaker has never seen an exception to this rule.

Comparing ALG vs Traditional Methods

The speakers discuss when it is fair to compare the speech of someone who used Automatic Language Growth (ALG) versus someone who used traditional methods for learning a foreign language.

Time Scale for Comparison

The speakers suggest that it is fair to compare the speech of someone who used ALG versus traditional methods after three to four years of learning a foreign language.

The speaker shares a personal story about how he was able to correct his friend's answers in Thai after eight months of living in Thailand and using ALG.

Speaking and Communicating in Thai

In this section, the speakers discuss their experiences with speaking and communicating in Thai. They compare their abilities to communicate effectively and how they developed their language skills.

Speaking Ability

One speaker's understanding of Thai was better than the other's, but the other speaker was able to speak more fluently.

The ability to communicate freely is what matters most when it comes to speaking proficiency.

Fluency is difficult to define, but for one speaker, it means being able to use Thai like they use English.

Language Development

One speaker never experienced exhaustion from speaking Thai, while others did.

Translating was a challenge for one speaker, but expressing themselves more freely and being understood easily was not.

After about three years of studying Thai, one speaker had surpassed the other in all aspects of language learning.

A traditional language program involving memorization and practice did not help a student who had hit a hard ceiling in their language development.

Watching native content may be a better way for advanced learners to improve their language skills.

Unlearning Language Habits

Trying too hard to mentally figure out certain phonemic sounds can interfere with language learning and cause confusion later on.

Unlearning something that has been learned can be challenging.

Zap Connections

In this section, the speaker talks about connections in the context of language learning.

Best Results for Natural Sounding Accent

Beth, a former AUA student with a good accent, attributed it to delaying output and having a good ear.

The speaker is not sure what Beth means by "a good ear," but she got more input than she was aware of by being in class and hanging around their office.

The speaker attributes natural sounding accents to getting input from inside oneself and experiences in that language.

Vocabulary Learning for Native Language

The speaker discusses his son's vocabulary learning process for his native language through reading and flashcards.

Flashcards can be beneficial if turned into an experience or game, but if not enjoyable, they may turn children off from learning.

Near Native Definition

No specific bullet points provided.

What Does Near Native Mean?

In this section, the speaker discusses what it means to have a near-native level of proficiency in a language.

Defining Near-Native Level

The speaker does not provide a clear definition of near-native level but suggests that it involves having an accent that is difficult to distinguish from that of a native speaker.

Natives' Perception of Foreigners Speaking Thai

In this section, the speaker discusses how natives perceive foreigners speaking Thai and shares his thoughts on the matter.

Native Recognition of Good Thai Pronunciation

The speaker's Thai is near-native, and when he speaks, it's good enough that natives can understand him.

If he says something wrong, they notice it in a big way.

When he mispronounces English words, he tells them not to worry about it because he's not worried about it.

Two Sides of the Coin

The speaker believes there are two sides to this issue: interference and personality.

Interference refers to when a foreigner's pronunciation is influenced by their native language.

Personality refers to a foreigner's unique way of talking that natives may not be used to.

Chinese and Indian Expats in Thailand

The speaker noticed that Chinese and Indian expats who did well in Thailand never tried to sound like Thais or assimilate into their culture.

As an American, the speaker didn't see any sense in trying to do so either.

Satisfaction with Fluency

The speaker is satisfied with his level of fluency in Thai.

He uses Thai no differently than he uses English when speaking.

There's no difference in his thought process between using English or Thai.

Anyone Can Learn Thai

The speaker believes anyone can learn Thai if they put in the time and effort required.

He doesn't believe there's anything special about him being able to speak fluent Thai.

Importance of Language and Communication

In this section, the speaker discusses the importance of language and communication in different cultures.

French Culture and Thai Culture

The French culture places a high value on speaking their language well, while Thai people place importance on speaking Thai well.

When not understood, it is usually due to expressing foreign concepts rather than language-related issues.

Achieving Near-Native Proficiency

Near-native proficiency refers to achieving levels of proficiency that cannot be distinguished from native levels in everyday spoken communication.

ALG can produce near-native proficiency in 3 to 5 years.

Dr. Brown was a master linguist who aimed to produce perfect Thai. He achieved about 87% fluency after living in Thailand for 50 years.

Achieving near-native proficiency is an organic process that varies from person to person.

Natural Output vs Benchmarks

In this section, the speaker discusses the balance between natural output and benchmarks when learning a new language.

Balancing Natural Output and Benchmarks

Learning a new language involves some level of natural output followed by growth and development.

Some people are interested in benchmarks for measuring progress.

It is difficult to provide exact benchmarks as progress varies depending on individual factors such as motivation, learning style, and exposure to the language.

English Benchmarks for Language Learning

In this section, the speaker discusses benchmarks and times for language learning, specifically in regards to speaking and listening.

Speaking vs Listening

The speaker notes that it is easier to track progress in listening than in speaking.

Once a person hits about 65-70% proficiency in speaking, they will begin to improve at a slower rate.

Speaking progresses at a different rate than listening due to the digestion process.

Personal Experience

The speaker shares an anecdote about his daughters coming to America from Thailand and how their English improved after being immersed in the language.

The speaker notes that his daughters' grammar continued to develop as they used English more frequently.

Milestones

While there are hard milestones for listening, there is not enough data to put hard milestones on speaking hours.

However, it is believed that speaking follows the general curve of listening and takes time for digestion or integration.

Starting with Comprehensible Input

In this section, the speakers discuss how to gauge the difficulty of native content for learners who are starting with immersion comprehensible input.

Guidelines for Gauging Difficulty

Follow your interests and choose content that you enjoy.

Keep your understanding of what's happening between 70% to 85%. More than that can get boring.

Don't be afraid to get into things that you don't understand all the words but can follow what's happening. This will broaden your knowledge.

Once you feel like you're not going anywhere, don't worry about it. Keep the input coming and keep your understanding at around 70% to 85%. Anything goes within that range.

Keeping the Silent Period

The speakers discuss how ALG plays a role in keeping the silent period when speaking a language with many words similar to the language being learned.

Keeping the Silent Period

When learning a language with many words similar to another language, ALG helps keep the silent period faster.

Language Learning and ALG

In this section, the speakers discuss the impact of language similarity on the silent period and whether it is possible to rebuild a language foundation using ALG.

Impact of Language Similarity on Silent Period

The length of the silent period in language learning is affected by the similarity between languages.

The more similar two languages are in terms of grammatical and phonemic structure, the shorter the silent period will be.

This process happens naturally as learners become consciously aware of new words and gradually build their vocabulary through exposure to different contexts.

Rebuilding a Language Foundation with ALG

It is generally not possible to break down a traditional language foundation and rebuild it using ALG.

While there may be ways to do so, they have not been seen in real experience.

Interference in Language Learning

In this section, interference in language learning is defined, and examples are given.

Definition of Interference

Interference refers to anything that gets in the way of natural language learning processes.

Natural processes involve becoming consciously aware of new words through exposure to different contexts over time.

Examples of Interference

Anything that disrupts or interrupts this natural process can cause interference.

For example, if someone stops mid-conversation to define an unfamiliar word instead of allowing learners to understand its meaning through context, it can interfere with their natural learning process.

Connecting Languages Through Grammar and Word Meanings

In this section, the speakers discuss how languages are connected through grammar and word meanings.

Connecting Languages Through Grammar

One way that languages are connected is through grammatical use.

As learners become familiar with grammatical structures across different languages, they can begin to make connections and understand how they are used.

Connecting Languages Through Word Meanings

Another way that languages are connected is through word meanings.

As learners encounter new words in different contexts, they can begin to understand their meanings and make connections between them across different languages.

ALG Tie Promotion

In this section, the speakers discuss ALG Tie and its benefits.

Benefits of ALG Tie

ALG Tie is a language learning program that uses Automatic Language Growth (ALG) principles to help learners acquire language naturally.

The program offers personalized instruction based on each learner's needs and abilities.

With ALG Tie, learners can improve their language skills quickly and effectively while enjoying the process.

English History of ALG Method

In this section, the speaker talks about the history of ALG method and how it started in 1984 at AUA Language Center by Dr. Brown. The speaker also talks about their personal experience with the program and how they went on to set up an English program based on ALG method.

ALG Program Setup

ALG tie started in 1984 at AUA Language Center by Dr. Brown.

The speaker entered the program in 1987 as one of five students to go through the entire year worth of material.

The speaker wanted to set up an English program based on ALG method and went back to Dr. Brown for help.

Three different programs were running simultaneously: Thai, Japanese, and English.

Decline of Live Program

Due to a couple of moves and COVID-19 pandemic, the live program dwindled until it withered away.

Currently, only online classes are available under the name "alt tie online."

AUA Language Center

AUA was a meeting point for people who lived in Bangkok or visited from other countries.

Before ALT, AUA was known all over the world for being one of the premier places to learn Thai traditionally.

Structural Natural Program

Between 1987 and 1995, a curriculum combining traditional Thai learning with ALG method was created but did not yield good results.

Solely Focusing on ALT

In 1995, the speaker convinced the team to focus solely on ALT, which developed quite well until they moved out of the building.

English Learning Thai and Comprehension of Native Content

In this section, the speaker talks about their personal journey in learning Thai and acquiring Tai. They also discuss how comprehensible native content is when learning a new language.

Personal Journey in Learning Thai

The speaker's personal journey in learning Thai could be a whole other video.

No further information provided.

Comprehension of Native Content

No information provided.

Thai Language Learning Journey

In this section, the speaker talks about his journey of learning Thai language and how he progressed from using Pimsler course to comprehensible input method. He also discusses how he used mass immersion coupled with hour-long lessons to improve his listening skills.

Learning Thai Language

The speaker started by doing the 30 lesson Pimsler course over and over again.

After a few months of that, he tried Tripod 101 and some other courses but didn't make much progress.

Then he heard about comprehensive comprehensible input and ALG (Automatic Language Growth) method which helped him progress further.

He started using mass immersion coupled with hour-long lessons that were basically picture description with a native speaker.

Progression in Listening Skills

The speaker spent thousands of hours on mass immersion which included passive listening for most of the day.

It took him around 9 to 11 months to reach an intermediate level in listening skills through comprehensible input method.

He then focused on native content such as Dharma talks and watched Thai series for another year to improve his understanding of the language.

The speaker is now able to understand 90% to 100% of what is being said in native content related to Buddhism or cars and auto repair.

Benefits of Comprehensible Input Method

The comprehensible input method exposes learners to a breadth of language which helps them follow conversations even if they don't know all the words being used.

This approach helps learners pick up many aspects of communication that they might not have learned through a structured approach.

Evolution of the Channel

In this section, the speaker talks about how the channel has evolved over time and how it started with sharing comprehensible input lessons.

The Evolution of the Channel

The channel started with sharing comprehensible input lessons.

The speaker realized that they were doing it wrong and went back to a silent period.

Parroting on Pimsleur turned off some reception of tones and sounds.

There are studies about how our brain works in terms of visual as well as audio perception.

The channel evolved into a platform for teaching Tai via ALG as well as spreading the ALG process.

Learning Thai through ALG

In this section, the speakers discuss whether their purpose is to sound like a native or to be able to speak without turning.

Learning Thai through ALG

ALG is about being able to speak without turning.

Getting sounds and meanings in ALG is done in the same way.