Gaeilge conversation via Skype?
Hi everyone! Even though I'm enjoying the course so far, I feel like I need oral practice. IMO, you can't say you've learned a language until you are able to maintain a decent conversation by means of it. Plus, learning becomes easier and faster. That's why I'd like to suggest conversation groups via Skype. Of course I understand it would be a huge effort from our Gaeilge experts, but they'd earn good karma by helping us non-speakers ;) This is just a suggestion. If you think it's possible, please let us all know. Slán!
11 Comments
Gaelskype is all you need. The issue is that there's not many natives there, and even fewer (if any?) who are active on it... So you'll be practicing with other learners who might also make learner's mistakes.
1623
You need to make mistakes to learn and often it's a good idea for learners to talk to each other than native speakers, it's boring for native speakers.
I disagree, especially with Irish. While I do think making mistakes is a good thing, with a phonology as complicated as Irish, you're never going to pick it up from learners, unless they're highly fluent. Which most aren't. Otherwise, you'll sound like a learner, and the Duolingo speaker (who isn't a native by any means of the word).
- 1623
We'll have to agree to disagree. I teach Welsh to adults and it's essential for the learners to practice as much possible to learn to communicate in another language. Speaking simple sentences together without perfect pronunciation is better than having perfect pronunciation but no confidence in basic communication. Once you reach a level of fluency then there's time to improve on accent and correct use of the language. I'm happy to sound like a learner because that's all I'll ever be unless I get the time to live in a area of fluent language speakers.
I think you're right. I teach English to adult learners (with most of whom I don't share a language in common) and the most important thing is to get people talking. You can get paralysed by the quest for perfection. Children would never learn to speak if they were petrified of being laughed at for making mistakes. That's actually a big reason why children are better language learners than adults - they haven't developed a paralysing ego yet. (There are other factors as well, of course, but the panic of perfectionism is often overlooked.)
Wow, I have been looking for a way to connect with other learners or speakers on skype. I realise that there might not be many people to chat with, and that there is a high chance they will be learners, but it's better than nothing. Go raibh mille maith agat!
How could they manage that? There are millions of learners here, and there won't be enough for everyone + I would charge money if I spend my hours to chat over skype, so it looks impossible except some volunteers.
Yes, you're right. Too bad. Thought that maybe in small groups but, nah, I'm on my own.
I've been looking for someone to practice with because i find the pronunciation the hardest. I will be willing to help with danish pronunciation if any fluent Irish speakers will help me :D ? Pretty please.
