Self-confidence plays a larger role in learning a second language than it does in learning any other subject. Those who lack confidence can be afraid to make mistakes, which are an important part of learning in any subject. Learning a second language is considered more "personal" than learning other subjects because language is tied to aspects of our identity. Overmonitoring oneself or becoming frustrated with repeated mistakes can shake the confidence of a second language learner and can prevent him from being able to focus on anything but the mistakes he makes. By viewing the learning as a process that will evolve over time, a learner should be willing to make mistakes with the understanding that they will help in learning in the long run.
Though experts previously believed that older people do not learn languages as easily as younger people, studies by the U.S. Department of Education have contradicted that belief, saying that the only way age may factor into second language learning is in the choice of teaching methods. For younger learners, a second language is typically taught through repetitive drills. For older learners, a second language is taught more effectively by relating elements of the new language to ideas and elements in the learner's primary language.
"Learning" a second language is reading about and memorizing the rules of the language. "Acquiring" a language results from immersion and natural, "real life" exposure. According to expert Stephen Krashen, acquiring a second language by living with it in daily life is the preferred method for all ages; when that cannot be done, drills and other types of methods can be used. Acquiring a second language involves constant exposure to the language. The learner ideally is surrounded by native speakers and is required to use what she has learned in order to communicate, much as a young child would have to do when learning how to speak.
Learners who don't live near native speakers of the language will not be able to use an "acquisition" method. Book-based programs have condensed language learning into the basics that will enable the learner to get around in a location where that language is spoken exclusively. Some DVD programs guarantee success by mimicking the "acquisition" process. It's best to choose a method you find easy to understand; this increases your chances of retaining what you learn.