Annually, billions of dollars are being spent on funding for the learning of foreign languages. This includes all the gadgets, materials, equipment, and all stuff that is deemed important to make language learning possible as well as easy and affordable for every American student. But what happens? Are these programs realized? If so, how come we still miserably fail to match our European brethren and other peoples around the world? What is then the use of spending all these billions of dollars on something that does not succeed?

We may not be able to exactly pinpoint the reasons why our language learning programs fail but perhaps some tips on how to learn a foreign language fast and effectively will be useful for those who intend to take up language courses. They may not be the easiest but perhaps they will be effective for anyone. These tips are as follows:

1. It's best to take up language learning when you are in a country that speaks the language. Why so? By doing so, you are greatly exposed to the way of life of the people whose native language you are learning; so much so that it will be easier to assimilate new information with regard to their language. Aside from this, you are afforded the opportunity to practice new words (i.e. how they are pronounced and how they are used in sentences) with native speakers who can provide immediate feedback. If it is not possible for you to go abroad, locate a language program that will be closest to taking it up abroad.

2. Learn by continuous practice. Always practice new words until you get them right but make sure you put them in your memory. Ensure that you also know how to properly use them in sentences. Using the standard references in checking your grammar will also help in ensuring that you are on the right path.

3. Soak up as much of the language as humanly possible. Employ bit by bit transition as you go. Mingling with native speakers or those who have fluent command of the language will help in a positive way. You get to gain more confidence when it comes to speaking, too.

4. Read literature that utilizes the language such as dailies, magazines, even short stories. You will be able to glean the proper way of using words in sentences. Your syntax will greatly improve if you do this on a regular basis. It will also do wonders for how you write in the language.

5. Never take the short cut to achieving learning a new language. Immerse yourself and put your mind and soul into it and you will never go wrong. And don't worry because if you have the drive, you surely will survive.

Learning a new language is never done without effort. It can either take a long time or perhaps just a short period, but with the right strategies and with your heart set on it, you will be able to learn that language fast.

If interested in Learning Spanish, Portuguese or other foreign languages, visit http://www.marialanguages.com for more information. Maria Oliveira is the proud owner of the Maria OLiveira's Language Learning, based in California. With her extensive experience and background in teaching foreign languages, she has the necessary qualifications to provide valuable information on language learning: http://www.marialanguages.com