Too Lazy To Do Homework. Can I Still Learn Thai?

[HalfSquat]

So I've been having lessons for a while now and not really learnt much Thai.

I am pretty busy and don't have much time to spare to do the homework revision from the classes although another way to look at it is that I don't make time to do the homework because I don't want to do or am too lazy. Either way its not getting done!

Is there any other way to learn Thai? Other approaches or does it always come down to doing the hard graft and putting in the hours?

Thanks.

[HappyInCM]

I believe the ALG method from AUA in Bangkok asks you to only go to the classes themselves - they probably discourage studying (based on their methodology).

But, it requires a lot of hours in the classroom - something like around 800 hours before you are start learning how to speak, read/write. But, since you learn by seeing word definitions kind of acted out, there's no real homework or memorization required other than just sitting in the classroom watching the skits the teachers put on. 4 hours a day 5 days a week with a few holidays and sick days should give you about 800 hours in 1 year.

Other than total immersion, I would think other methods require some sort of self-study, but why not take things at your own pace and just go when you can and focus on the parts that are fun to you, which may make you more motivated to spend more time on it? If only spending a little time on it, I would think a private tutor would be the way to go as you might as well make the most of the little time you have to study.

[Parvis]

I do not have personal experience with AUA - but I do know an individual - over 60 - who has attended AUA for approx 2 years. He is now at level 5 - I understand. He speaks better Thai than I do - but cannot read or write (which I can). I consider myself an "Intermediate" student - but I have only "studied" - fairly regularily - for 6 months.

Therefore for those who have no urgency in learning quickly (not meant as negative connotation) this may be a good way to go.

[kriswillems]

I think motivation is the number one factor in any study (it's more important than the choice of school, the study method or anything else).

Of course you can learn without being motivated. In fact, that is how the educational systems (schools) in most countries work: pushing knowledge into the brains of unmotivated children. I studied French for more than 10 years that way. I successfully passed all my French exams (with greatest distinction). After leaving school my level of French dropped to near zero (in 3 weeks time). Today I am only able to understand and read some French. I almost can't speak or write.

Try to use the things you learn in school in your daily life. Once you start to feel how much easier life becomes with a bit of language knowledge motivation will probably come automatically.

Another trick is to look for an older and cruel private teacher, which gives a lot of homework and doesn't accept any laziness.

The fact that you recognize your laziness and ask for advice on this message board, shows there's motivation, you just need that little bit extra to get there.

[HalfSquat]

Thanks for the replies.

I think as I don't use the little I do know I don't really see the benefit of learning which would inspire me to learn more.

I will try to speak more.

I am part-way through a chunk of lessons but when they are over I am not sure which way to go. I think perhaps I'd like someone to talk to doing conversational drills to help me remember.

[meadish_sweetball]

Find a quiet coffee shop, bar or restaurant somewhere where the staff is fairly idle, and go there as often as you can.

Try to use the little Thai you have and show a positive attitude. You will get conversation lessons all for free. The downside is they probably won't be able to answer any language related questions you have except for saying if something is right or not.

Make use of your taxi rides. Engage the drivers in conversation.

I learned a lot of my conversational Thai the first few years by trying to talk to people around me. If you don't smell funny or are constantly drunk, you will see that most Thai people are happy to engage in a bit of conversation, you just need to learn the standard phrases and be able to talk about yourself in basic sentences...

[painai2]

I also find just having the tv on and listening to Thai tv programs helps your listening skills.

[kpmsprtd]

I've nothing to add. Everyone else surprised me by chipping in nought but good advice. If you can make any Thai friends who speak nearly no English, that's always a good way to go. Another way is to take classes (with all Thai classmates) in subjects that you already know. For example, let's say you're a Microsoft Windows guru. Sign up for a class. As soon as your classmates figure out how much you know, they'll pepper you with questions in Thai, and they're not likely to give up until they've got the Windows answers they need...

[HalfSquat]

Thanks for the further replies.

I like the idea of hanging out at a cafe and trying to befriend the staff.

Still need to learn more first before I can do that though I think.