In today’s blog post I would like to share with you the four main phases of learning which I found beneficial, in the learning language process.

I came across this information reading one of the books about memory techniques and speed reading.

In my opinion, those four phasis are crucial for anybody who is interested in acquiring and storing new information.

As we already know, there are different ways to learn something new, but not all are very efficient. Unfortunately, they do not always help us to use our cognitive functions in the most productive way. It seems like using the 4 phasis of learning: Acquisition, Comprehension, Organization, and Retention might be very helpful😊

Before we dive deeply into each phase, it is very important for you to know or define the motivation behind your learning. Without strong motivation you risk abandoning the whole process of learning. The moment of challenge or difficulty happens, most will be horribly discouraged.

Ask yourself why you want to learn Italian? Are you interested in the rich culture, history, or art of Italy? Do you want to travel to Italy or communicate with native speakers?

Maybe you work for Italian clients, and it is your professional need? Whatever the situation is, motivation plays a crucial role in the process of learning the Italian language. Please remember that when you are motivated you stay committed to your studies and persist through the inevitable difficulties.

The First Phase: Acquisition

This phase typically refers to the initial stage of learning, where new information or skills are introduced and ready to be absorbed. Acquisition can occur in various ways: through listening, viewing images, or reading, which occupies a significant portion of the time dedicated to study. Exposure to authentic materials, such as conversations, videos, or written texts, plays a crucial role in facilitating this early absorption of linguistic components.

The effectiveness of acquisition is often influenced by the learner's engagement, curiosity, and the instructional methods employed. Active participation, such as hands-on activities, discussions, or immersive experiences, can enhance the acquisition process, promoting a deeper understanding. I will also describe some strategies that create a holistic way for language acquisition, like relaxation, mind maps or speed reading, so stayed tuned for my next blog posts😊

The Second Phase: Comprehension

Once information is acquired, we move to the comprehension phase, which involves grasping the meaning and significance of the acquired information.

Comprehension is necessary in any learning process. Every intelligent person knows that memorizing without reasoning is not very useful. After a while, we don't remember a lot. It is necessary to delve deeper into the subject we are studying to see the results of our effort. During this stage, we strive to connect new knowledge with existing understanding, fostering a deeper level of insight.

Effective comprehension is facilitated by diverse learning approaches, including discussions, practical applications, and opportunities for questioning and reflection. Cultivating strong comprehension skills lays the foundation for successful application of knowledge in practical scenarios, making it an integral part of the overall learning journey. That is why I often encourage my students to apply the newly learned contents in everyday situations. In my opinion, it is the best way to remember new vocabulary.

The Third Phase: Organization

After comprehension, organizing the information helps you reinforce understanding and facilitates easier retrieval. This phase involves structuring and categorizing knowledge for optimal understanding and recall. Systematically arranging information, identifying relationships and patterns will contribute to a better understanding.

Effective organization not only aids in memorization but also enhances the ability to retrieve information when needed. Various techniques, such as mind mapping or creating outlines, can be very helpful in this phase. Educators often emphasize the importance of organizational skills, as they contribute to a more efficient and comprehensive learning experience. A well-organized understanding of the material serves as a solid foundation for the final phase of retention, ensuring that knowledge is not only acquired but also stored in a retrievable and meaningful way.  

The Fourth Phase: Retention

Retention, the concluding phase of the learning journey, is the ability to recall and apply information over time. During this crucial stage, you strive to cement your understanding by committing knowledge to long-term memory.

Effective retention involves frequent review, practice, and reinforcement of learned concepts. It is closely tied to your engagement and the quality of previous phases, emphasizing the importance of a well-rounded approach to learning. Educators often encourage students to actively review and revisit material to solidify their understanding and promote lasting retention.

Various strategies, such as spaced repetition, self-assessment, mind maps, and memory palaces can help you in strengthening memory recall.

These four phases align with principles of effective learning and memory, emphasizing the importance of not only acquiring information but also understanding it, organizing it for clarity, and retaining it for future use.

Enjoy your learning process and……..

Have fun😊