[DontchaKnowit]

disagree. You just have to actively listen, and cannot let your mind wander. you can also read and have no idea what you just read if you let your mind wander. Currently learning spanish via a podcast and its very effective, I just have to pause and rewind constantly to make sure I fully understand whats going on

[bee_rider]

I was pretty clear that I was just describing what works for me, right? So, as the authority on the topic, I declare you incorrect.

It is fine if you think I’m not representative or usual, but I’m telling you, I’ve tried listening very hard in many different contexts, it just doesn’t work.

[noboostforyou]

A long time ago I remember taking tests in school that was explicitly about trying to determine how you best learned - audio/visual/hands-on etc

So you're definitely correct - everyone learns best a different way.

[layer8]

I don’t think language-learning is a good example, because of course hearing the language is a crucial part there. And on the other hand, good luck learning to read/write Chinese (or even Spanish) with just podcasts.