Learning new languages

Mostly as an adult

June 15, 2020 — November 11, 2023

faster pussycat
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Figure 1

1 flashcards

See flashcards.

2 Diglot Weave method

Prismatext uses a technique popularized by Robbins Burling (Burling 1968) called the diglot weave technique.

This technique, which “weaves” (or “blends”) foreign words into sentences written in the learner’s native language, is ideal for learning a second language. It is best for new or intermediate learners and aids in the retention of individual words and short phrases.

Dr. Burling received his undergraduate degree from Yale University in 1950 and his Ph.D. in Anthropology from Harvard University in 1958. In 1968, Robbins penned a paper entitled Some Outlandish Proposals For The Teaching Of Foreign Languages. In it, he outlined several new ways for learning a second language, one of which was the diglot weave technique used today by Prismatext.

Since 1968, many studies have been performed by academics into the efficacy of this technique. On every possible measure, the diglot weave technique consistently outperforms traditional “practice and drill” methods used in classrooms, textbooks, and flashcards.

3 Dictionaries

See dictionaries

4 References

Burling. 1968. Some Outlandish Proposals for the Teaching of Foreign Languages.” Language Learning.
Christensen, Merrill, and Yanchar. 2007. Second Language Vocabulary Acquisition Using a Diglot Reader or a Computer-Based Drill and Practice Program.” Computer Assisted Language Learning.
Dunlosky, Rawson, Nathan, et al. 2013. What Works, What Doesn’t.” Scientific American.
Freeman, Eddy, McDonough, et al. 2014. Active Learning Increases Student Performance in Science, Engineering, and Mathematics.” Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences.
McCall, and Craig. 2009. Same-Language-Subtitling (SLS): Using Subtitled Music Video for Reading Growth.” In.
Sullivan, Janus, Moreno, et al. 2014. Early Stage Second-Language Learning Improves Executive Control: Evidence from ERP.” Brain and Language.