In an immersion program, you travel to a Spanish-speaking country to learn the language and culture. Students in immersion programs often live with a Spanish-speaking host family, so they can speak and listen to Spanish outside the classroom. Immersion programs are offered in many different counties and can be tailored to fit your needs. You can choose whether to study with an instructor individually or in a group setting, decide how many hours of in classroom learning you need and select how many weeks you would like to spend immersed in Spanish.
Interactive software is another tool for learning Spanish, and Rosetta Stone is probably the most widely known. Interactive software is more affordable than private lessons or an immersion trip but still allows you to practice speaking and comprehension skills. Other interactive software includes Fluenz, Tell Me More Spanish, Rocket Spanish and Visual Link Spanish.
Audio CDs encourage you to practice your Spanish out loud by repeating words and phrases after native speakers. There are a number of different instruction Spanish CDs designed to be played during work commutes, such as "Behind the Wheel Spanish" and "Spanish in 10 Minutes a Day." Listening to books on tape is another way to absorb Spanish. Start out children's books, such as fairy tales, that you are familiar with to learn vocabulary and tune your ear. Watch Spanish television because a visual image can help you understand the speakers.
Purchase a Spanish-English dictionary to look up words and learn new vocabulary. Spanish grammar books such as "A New Reference Grammar of Modern Spanish" by Butt and Benjamin help you understand conjugations and parts of speech. Spanish text books and workbooks can also be good tools. The drawback to learning Spanish through books is that there is no oral aspect. You should try to supplement your studies with a conversation partner.
Take Spanish classes from a private tutor or in a group setting. Most community colleges offer Spanish courses. Look in the phone book or online in order to find Spanish language instructors and/or classes.
Finding a conversation partner is a fun and helpful way to practice your spoken Spanish. Working with someone who is fluent in Spanish is definitely a plus because they can correct you and explain your mistakesm, as well as tech you new vocabulary. However, even speaking with someone who is also learning Spanish is helpful--it can give you an idea of phrases and vocabulary you need to learn and alert you to the areas of grammar where you need further study.