We picked up a copy of the Pimsleur CD for basic Italian from the library. Searching the library catalog online is not as much fun as going through packed physical shelves. But it’s convenient. Your public library’s online catalog search function doesn’t quite work like online search engines, but it’s getting closer to that model (more on this another time). The Pimsleur is a very well-known language learning method and comes highly recommended on the web. Does the Pimsleur method live up to its hype?
The Good:
Much like the Berlitz, the Pimsleur method for learning languages has been circulating for years and years. You’re bound to easily find a copy of it either in one of the dinosaur media formats or in anything else. Therefore, it is very accessible. It is also free to use from your local public library. The Pimsleur doesn’t require too much effort to follow. The words are often broken down into syllables. Next time you listen to the basic Italian audio recording, notice how breaking words down into syllables makes it easy to remember the words. You can almost feel the texture of the words and the music in the sentences as you listen. You are more likely to remember what you’re learning through this method because it won’t throw so much at you in one go. Unlike the Berlitz.
The Medium:
The conversation topics featured in the Pimsleur contents are typically very neutral. There is not much exciting going on there. However, the topics are easy enough to follow. These also make it easy enough for you the learner to imagine yourself as part of the scenarios described ( be warned that some topics might be somewhat dated though; just use your own best discerning judgement).
The Bad:
If you go with the Pimsleur you will move along at a snail’s pace. You will need to dedicate significant time to learn with this method. You will advance but you won’t be fluent overnight. Surely your next month’s trip to Venice won’t benefit much from your binge-learning this month because it is a much slower-moving method. So, does Pimsleur live up to its hype? Well, be prepared to plan in advance. Better still, try to project-manage your learning, and look far into the future for best results.
Lastly, your learning style might differ, so keep an open mind to find out what works best for you. Whether you’re perusing Pimsleur or another method, language education is a conversation between you and your method of choice.
Leave a Reply