As teachers, we find that if the podcast content is not at least 50% comprehensible for a student, they will not be engaged. Consider a young child – if they are not able to passively understand at least half of an adult conversation, they are likely to become frustrated or bored and walk away. Language learners are similar in this regard. It can be tricky to find a stepping stone to begin to engage in real-world Spanish content without the overwhelm.
Languages serve as bridges connecting us across cultures, and I am so proud to be trilingual. As I reflect on my language journey, I am struck by the fact that the U.S. is one of the few countries that does not encourage multilingualism.
There is immense value in traveling to Spanish-speaking countries. But we’re also here to encourage you to recognize the immense value–and responsibility–there is right here in California.
Spanish for Organizations
Sponsoring team members to learn Spanish is an important DEI initiative. If you plan to dedicate time next month to DEI initiatives to create a more vibrant and welcoming work environment, try getting yourself and your team members on board with learning Spanish and see what happens.
Spanish for Social Change
If you’re ready to finally learn Spanish this year – Focus. Your. Efforts. Dabbling in Duolingo will not make you a confident Spanish speaker.
