Use a Notebook, Not a Phone!

Traveling is an ideal opportunity to immerse yourself in a different culture and learn a new language. Technology has made it easy to access language-learning resources on our phones. However, there is one thing we encourage CCC students to bring on their trips that may seem outdated: a mini notebook!

Taking handwritten notes has many benefits for language-learning. It allows for a more tactile and hands-on learning experience. Writing something down feels personal and helps you remember it more efficiently. Instead of passively scrolling through flashcards on your phone, actively writing and practicing the new language in a notebook leads to better retention and makes the learning experience more engaging.

A small notebook is more portable and convenient than a phone. You can easily slip it into your pocket or bag, and it doesn’t require an internet connection. This makes it a great tool for on-the-go learning, whether you’re exploring a new city or communicating with an indigenous community. Depending on where you are traveling, avoiding pulling out an expensive laptop or smartphone can also keep your interactions safer.

Another benefit of using a small notebook is that it allows you to customize your language learning experience. You can create your own flashcards, notes, and exercises that are tailored to your specific learning style and needs. You can also give your book to new friends and acquaintances to write in or create fun pictures, helping you remember new words, places, and favorite restaurants. Ultimately, this makes the learning process more efficient and effective.

In summary, using a small notebook while traveling allows for more tactile and hands-on learning, is more portable and convenient, and allows you to customize your language-learning experience. If you travel to multiple countries, you’ll slowly develop a collection of memories to look back on and reflect on your growth. So, next time you’re planning a trip, consider bringing a small notebook along with you to help you learn a new language.