Reflection

Throughout the course of this semester, I have learned where my strengths and weaknesses lie in studying the Spanish language. I now know that consistent studying, which primarily includes speaking the language, is very vital in not only passing the course but needed If I want to ever learn how to speak the language fluently. I have learned that grammar my grammar is horrible, and if I would like to communicate better I need to learn the different conjugations and stem changes.

Exploring Culture

Lingro Hub was an exceptional learning aid this semester. There were tons of helpful assignments, however, I do believe that the number of assignments that were due each week on top of our regular coursework was a bit excessive. I was more anxious about getting the assignment in rather than actually learning the material some weeks.

The Talk abroad assignments were helpful because they allowed me to meet real people in other Spanish-speaking countries, who live normal lives as I do here. It was fun relating and stumbling over my words as I attempted to communicate. It taught me that I am not confident in my speaking, and should find more speaking opportunities to conquer my fears and practice.

Engaging in Communities

Being able to be involved in something bigger than myself always tends to feel good and gives me a sense of belonging. I grew up with a small family but as I got older II realized my family was bigger than I thought it was. I sometimes struggle to lean on others for help because I was taught to do it by myself for so long. The more I learn about the Spanish culture, I see how important those family roles are and how they okay a crucial role in the upbringing of a community.

Interpersonal Communication

Talk abroad was a very unique experience. I think I may try to use more applications like these outside of the classroom to help me to communicate better in Spanish.

Seeing the novice-level of Spanish speakers in our class on flipgrid and discussion boards, helped me not to feel as alone. I was glad to know that I was not learning slower, but it was just hard and this is something new to put more effort into than what I am used to.

Presentational Speaking

The most presentational speaking I did this semester was the assignment on flipgrid, playing out a conversation where I was introducing myself. I think it was good practice because it showed me how fast a conversation actually goes.

Presentational Writing

Discussion boards and Lingro Learning aids gave me a chance to practice writing out Spanish words. It was frustrating most times because I would forget to turn my keyboard to Spanish, and sometimes forget what words had accents and which ones did not. However, I did enjoy the opportunity in learning the fundamentals of learning to spell certain words in Spanish that were similar to the ones in English.

Interpretive Listening

I took the time to begin listening to Spanish television whenever I see the station, I turn to it with no subtitles attempting to use context clues in order to fully understand what the storyline is actually about.

Interpretive Reading

There was so much reading. From the test the quizzes and the homework. What I did find helpful was that the longer the paragraph the better I was at translating or interpreting what message the reading was attempting to get across. There were certain news articles that I was promoted to read from LingroHub, at first glance I would think, I had no idea what they were trying to say. As I read on some of the familiar words began to click and I would soon be able to interpret the reading and answer questions to the best of my ability.