The only truth I know about language learning is…
안녕하세요, this is Jonson!
As a long-time language teacher and learner, the only thing I consider an absolute truth is this: learning a language is like building a relationship.
It means that, when learning Korean, efficiency is not the goal.
Saving time is useful for many things, but not for relationships. Is this chit-chat really worth my time? What do I gain by taking a walk with this person? That’s just not how you treat your loved ones. And that’s not how you should treat this new life-long friend, the language you chose to learn.
By now, it should be clear to you that I am not a fan of this current trend in language learning: the relentless pursuit of efficiency. What’s the point of memorizing words faster if you don’t enjoy it? Why even start the trip, if all you want is for it to end as soon as possible?
There’s nothing wrong with taking your time if you are enjoying the journey. Moreover, it’s what works in this game. For most language learners, it’s the best way, and the only way, to make this journey fruitful and rewarding.
So let’s make it a love story, not a productivity report.
Me as a Learner
The ideas and motivation for the SpongeMind Podcast and YouTube channel come from my own experiences and struggles with learning new languages as an average learner.
In school, I learned English the Korean way. At its core was an obsession with outcome and external validation. For me and other Koreans of my generation, it not only made English learning painful, but also ineffective. After living in the US for a long time, I now speak it fluently. But even today, I still carry insecurities about the language.
Interestingly, I have no such insecurities about my German. It is far worse than my English, but I enjoy speaking it and feel no anxieties about it.
That’s because I have been learning it in a healthier way. It’s better aligned with my current philosophy of language learning, taking my time and enjoying the process.
Me as a Person
When I’m not recording a podcast episode, producing a video, or responding to your emails, you’ll most likely find me in my listening room immersed in music.
The names that make my heart beat a little faster are Vladimir Horowitz, Leonard Bernstein, John Coltrane, Bill Evans, Paul Simon and 새소년.
I also write articles for “audiophiles,” people who are fond of great-sounding audio equipment. You can read a couple of my pieces down below (*).
When I don’t work or listen to music, I am probably composting kitchen scraps in the backyard, re-reading my favorite book Sapiens, or enjoying meals with Eunice, my lovely wife and podcast co-host.
* Links to my articles about audio:
Me as a Teacher
Getting to know Korean learners and seeing their passion inspires and motivates me, which is why I teach.
Since 2016, I have taught Korean in a variety of formats, including private lessons, group classes, and immersion programs, both online and in-person. But what I do as a language teacher boils down to:
(1) Creating engaging material for learners
(2) Training them on effective learning techniques
(3) Connecting them with language exchange partners (native speakers)
(4) Explaining grammar and vocabulary
I see these four areas as merely tools, not necessarily the essence of what I do. Now I know that what I give to the learners isn’t as important as what happens in the learners themselves.
Therefore, empowering learners is what I consider my most critical mission… and biggest challenge.