Collaborative learning may be the most effective way to learn a second language. The way we learn language is different than the way we learn other subjects. While math, science and subjects such as geology can be learned by a student studying alone, language is inherently a social tool. It is almost impossible to learn language without an interactive element incorporated in the learning process.
While vocabulary can be memorized, grammar and pronunciation are not skills of wrote memorization. A group of students studying and speaking together is far more effective for language learning and retention than solo study. The more a new language is incorporated in a person’s need and desire to communicate with others the more it becomes a natural part of their own communicative tools.
Collaborative learning also forces the students to pronounce each word properly. If while studying alone they develop poor pronunciation habits there is no immediate feed back on their error. It is far harder to unlearn a wrong way than it is to learn the correct way to speak from the start. Group members can very soon begin to communicate simple ideas to one another in their new language.
Much as collaborative learning is helpful in acquiring a new language, frequent use of the language to communicate to others is necessary to retain it. Reviewing it alone is not nearly as helpful for building and retaining language skills as actually speaking it with others.
When a student is able to begin thinking in their new language, true learning has taken place. At this point, a learner no longer has to translate each word from their native language into the new language. Conversation with others will help facilitate this process.