Could Cute Cats be the Key to Language Learning?

It’s not a teaching technique currently employed by tutors at OISE but researchers at language learning app creators Memrise are convinced that images of cute cats may be an indispensable tool for language learning. 

After conducting memory tests to find out what best helps people retain information, they observed a clear link between funny photos and people being able to remember phrases, particularly those featuring cute cats. This is what led them to create their latest app, CatAcademy, which shows photos of cats in humorous poses and displays a corresponding phrase in Spanish.

Internet sensations such as Grumpy Cat and Nyan Cat, both of whom have millions of fans on Youtube and Facebook, are proof of a peculiar fascination with cats and analysts at Memrise think this is exactly why incorporating these sorts of images into our language learning could be so effective. They also cite research from Japan indicating the relationship between cuteness and improved cognitive function to back up their method.

Sadly, the CatAcademy app is currently only available for Spanish learners but next time you’re struggling to remember a particular phrase, why not associate it with an amusing picture of your favourite feline? 

For the full article, visit: www.bbc.co.uk/news/technology-25103362

Do you have a brain for languages?

Some people are naturally gifted at speaking and understanding foreign languages. Their ears become tuned to the new sounds and with a bit of practice they are able to reproduce these new sounds with little difficulty.

Others find it virtually impossible, and no matter how hard they try, the words just don't seem to flow. 

So is there something unique about certain brains that enable some of us to speak and understand foreign languages? Is it in our genes? Or is it simply a question of starting from a young age?

What do you think the key is?

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