Ngifunda isiZulu Kamnandi : effective study techniques for learning a foreign language in a distance education environment

Abstract

This article is based on a real life experience of the author in having to cope with learning a foreign language, namely isiZulu. It is specifically about the act of memorising foreign language vocabulary. Two memory techniques, visualisation and association, are applied to the learning and memorisation process of foreign language vocabulary. The article further reflects in general on the learning experience the author had with the Certificate Course in Communication Skills in Zulu, offered by Unisa's Department of African Languages. The aim of this article is to create an awareness among Unisa lecturers of the pitfalls and possibilities encountered by learners in a distance learning environment.