Language learning or language acquisition is the process by which humans learn or acquire a language and this is the leading aspect that distinguishes humans from other species. Language itself has cognitive, social, cultural and physical aspects attached to it. This defines the vastness of a language, as it is not just a means of communication but a process of interaction, information, communication and a motor skill.

Language learning as mentioned earlier is a process that blends one stage into another. Certain principles and language learning techniques are discussed below:

Techniques

There are many language learning techniques that have been developed by the pioneers in the language learning scenario. Some of these effective techniques are:

Drills: using of the drills technique focuses on one feature or set of the language. This means that repetitively doing a particular process till it is reproduced without errors. Activities that present a model must be performed till mastery is gained. Simple correction is not as effective as reinforcement. The language learning techniques recommend the usage of visuals like slides, pictures, magazines, real life situations, stick figures and student position in relation to the helper, for new text drills.

Enhancement of learning and motivation: an effective language learning technique is the enhancement of learning by introducing drama. This means any form of drama like videos, simple setups for the model text or free expressions all done by the students. Another effective technique is the usage of direct dialogue in the form of question and answer or comment and response. This initiates the student to respond or ask questions and can be corrected for a mistake.

Comprehension exercises: these exercises are effective in making the learner learn special words or words for various physical actions. The teacher can give commands for the physical actions that can be performed within the class limits and these could be individual action commands or group action commands.

Directed comprehension drills: in this language learning technique the teacher commands the student to give instructions or commands to other students, in a way involving the class. Here it is important to remember that the instructions used in the classes should always be in the new language and could be the variants to the words like good, read, open books, try again, write and listen.

Social context: any language if learnt with the social context in mind is easier to understand and learn. Therefore the language should be practiced in the cultural setting. The teacher can bring the student’s needs from real life situation to the classroom session. In this way, a student would find it comfortable to confront the situation if it occurs again.
Kinetic learning: this technique of language learning refers to the communication that is associated with action, movement or event. Kinetic learning has a higher place value than visual or verbal learning.   
Thus these are the techniques that are effective in language learning. Besides these techniques there are certain principles which are as important to understand in the concept of language learning. The natural leaning sequence as followed by all facilitates learning and is the most effective form of learning; hearing, speaking, reading and writing.