The Birkenbihl method for language learning

What do I think of the  Birkenbihl method of language learning? I was asked this question in an email. Check out the website. I may be simplifying but I see it as follows.

The basic premises are correct. We need to listen before we speak or try to pronounce. We should not learn isolated lists of words or phrases. We do not need explicit instruction in grammar. We need to learn on our own, not in a classroom. Learners should do what they like to do.

The method consists of four steps. 1) Decoding, meaning working out the word by word translation of the new language. 2) Active listening, meaning listening to the new language along with the word for word translation. 3) Passive listening, meaning listening while doing other chores. 4) Reading, writing, speaking. There are additional detailed suggestions on how to listen, and how to write etc.

I would not follow these 4 steps. I begin by listening and reading. I do the decoding while I read by looking up words and phrases that I do not understand. I listen often after I have decoded, but only to the target language. I dislike having to listen to English while learning other languages. I listen often, actively and passively. I read and re-read, listen and re-listen.

I also put a lot of effort into word and phrases study, based on the words that I have come across in my listening and reading.

I agree that writing and speaking can wait.

So, in summary I agree with the premises but would not follow the 4 steps. I think it is easier to think in terms of listening, reading and word/phrase study as the three steps for a beginner learner. It is easier to keep things simple, rather than proposing complicated rigorous steps that have to be followed. People will tend to stop doing them.

Comments

[Mitch]

For those who have trouble navigating the Birkenbihl link, try:

http://195.149.74.241/BIRKENBIHL/PDF/MethodEnglish.pdf

It gives a detailed summary of her approach in English. (Vera Birkenbihl, for those who don't know the author.)

Steve,

I do find one aspect of her method interesting: Her suggestions for learning to speak (i.e., the Chorus-Method and Shadow Speaking). A lot of "comprehensible input" folks--especially Krashen--just assume that output "emerges" from input only. She (like Alexander Arguelles, who also "shadows"), addresses output--but only after extensive input.

[chris sarda]

you got my vote