(20) English conversation beginners ~ 4 principles to avoid frustration

■Is it difficult for English conversation beginners to continue learning?

There are a variety of learning methods for English conversation, including school, online, self-study materials, and TV courses, so anyone can start learning English anytime if they feel motivated. However, while it is easy to start, it is also difficult to maintain it for a long time. ``Being able to continue for a long time'' is the most important issue for English conversation beginners to keep in mind. So, what kind of learning method lasts for a long time? What is the recommended learning method for beginners? Let's explore together with everyone.

■The first three months are everything for English conversation beginners

There is a shocking fact that 80% of English conversation beginners drop out within the first 3 months. If so, the minimum requirement for beginners is to be able to continue for three months.

So, what exactly are the conditions that last for more than 3 months? The most important conditions that emerge from the voices of students who are actually continuing lessons at Global Bridge are:

No0: Relationship of trust with instructors

Especially in the early stages of learning, building a relationship of trust with your instructor and being able to consult with them about how to learn, not just as a lecturer, but as a counselor, is the key to getting through the three-month period.

■How can I continue to see results for a year?

It takes about a year for beginners to reach a certain level. In other words, your goal should be to be able to keep going for a year without giving up.

Here are the top three conditions that emerged from the students' voices to be able to continue for a year.

No.1: Calm space and atmosphere for learning

Many students value being able to learn in a calm space and atmosphere. The enthusiastic atmosphere of the people there is, at best, a strong desire to improve, but if it goes too far, people don't like it. For long-term learning, a space and atmosphere where you can study calmly and at your own pace without worrying about what others think is necessary.

No.2: Opportunity to experience improvement and effects

　The fact that you can actually feel your progress using English conversation, not just in a school classroom, etc., will lead to your desire to continue. It takes courage to try English conversation for the first time, such as online English conversation or English cafes, within a year, but having a simulated experience of using real English under the supervision of an instructor is a condition for continuing to do so for a long time. 　

No3: Reasonable cost

In order to continue for a long time, reasonable costs are an important condition. There is a tendency for students to want to be able to study for a fixed amount each month without incurring large one-time costs.

As a side note, the number of students who cited "materials" and "ease of access" as conditions for continuing with the program was unexpectedly low.

Regarding ``teaching materials,'' there were many negative reactions, such as ``If you just repeat what is written in the teaching materials, there is no point in taking the lessons.''

``Ease of access'' is also not considered important. If you have a reliable instructor and a calm atmosphere, attending the school will not be a burden. In fact, this is consistent with the fact that there are quite a few students who take the time to come from far away.

■Summary

Beginners of English should aim to continue learning for at least a year without giving up after the first three months. The 4 principles for this (4 principles for not giving up) are:

　No0: Relationship of trust with instructors

　No1: Calm space and atmosphere for learning

　No2: Opportunity to experience improvement and effects

　No3: Reasonable cost