Learning Tips
I've read that the best way to learn a language is through total submersion in that language.
I have recently purchased Carrie by Stephen King in Spanish and I'm now in the process of trying to read through this book....it's slow going.
Do you think this is a good way to learn a language or am I going to do more harm than good?
4 Answers
I would say that it is best to learn the basics before entering an immersion situation, but in the end there is no substitute. I live in a community where native Spanish speakers outnumber native English speakers, but I never bothered to learn anything beyond "restaurant Spanish" until recently. In a couple months, I plan to go to a Spanish speaking country for a month, which I hope will be sufficient to get to a basic conversational level.
Yes, I agree that immersion is the best method for learning a new language. Although reading a book that is totally written in Spanish is an excellent idea, it is not the same as an immersion learning environment. In order to be immersed in the language, you truly have to live in a Spanish speaking country, or at the very least, a Spanish speaking home or community. Part of the immersion learning process is having people respond to you, correct you and give you feedback to your progress. It is usually the ideal dream situation of anyone who is truly interested in learning a foreign language.
Back when I first started studying Spanish, I purchased an expensive "immersion" learning program. For me, it was not very helpful, at least at that stage in my learning. Yes, everything was in Spanish, but until I had someone unlock the secrets to what they were saying and doing, I was lost. Eventually, I studied grammar and vocabulary and also had several opportunities to spend time in Spanish speaking countries. Those immersion c.d.'s are finally useful, but I had to do a lot of work first.
So unless you are able to move to Latin America for awhile, I would spend as much time on this site as possible. I don't think you are doing too much harm by reading your book at this point. But one word of caution: If you don't know the proper pronunciation of sounds and words, you could be repeatedly saying things the wrong way to yourself. You will then have to "relearn" the proper way words are pronounced. So I would hate to see you waste your time.
Sorry for the long-winded answer, but I hope this helps.!! 
Nicole B.
Re: Immersion, my humble opinion.
A four part approach is helpful. You can "immerse," to some degree. 1st, Grammar and vocabulary. This site is excellent for that. 2nd, watch Spanish TV, it is everywhere here and you can absorb a lot from it. When in your car, Spanish radio, music and talk. It too is common. 3rd read novels, occasionally aloud to practice pronunciation, don't be discouraged your comprehension will improve with time. 4th/ Seek out somebody to talk with. Many communities have a Spanish speaking populations, with stores, restaurants etc., and local colleges have study groups and tutors.
I'm from Boston, Mass there ar several communities of Spanish speakers. Salvadoran, Mexican, Puerto Rican, Dominican, Colombian, Guatemalan, etc. A rich source of practice. Almost with out exception they are helpful and courteous, and the different music and food choices are awesome.
It depends. But as far as total submersion is concerned, you should be living in a Spanish-only environment. It's good as long as you have access to some additional tools, e.g. grammar reference and a good dictionary. And having someone to correct your mistakes is also advisable. But you can simply take a deep breath and dive - go to a Spanish-speaking country for a year or two.
