Author: Smarter Language
We spend a ton of time trying out popular language learning apps and writing comprehensive reviews to help you plan your most effective language-learning experience. But the best way to learn any target language is to first understand how you learn best. In this article, we dive headfirst into the world of language learning styles for a deeper look at how we each perceive, comprehend, and embrace new languages differently. We’ll also provide tips and language learning app recommendations for each distinct style so you can build your own unique practice. Perceptual Language Learning Styles Imagine learning as a symphony…
Language learning apps have made learning a new language more accessible, efficient, and fun than ever. Not all language programs are created equal. Some are similar to taking a class, others work best for extra practice in addition to other sources. Some of our favorite language practice apps are Duolingo, Anki, and Memrise. We’re going to break down how each one works and why we like them. Your goals, budget, and how you learn best will inform which apps are the best choice for you. Duolingo: Best for Gamified Learning Duolingo may not have the most robust curriculum, but it’s…
Since Rosetta Stone works as a primary language learning tool and Pimsleur works as a supplemental tool for listening, they are wonderfully compatible with each other.
If you’re using ineffective language-learning techniques, you may not be making the progress you hoped to make.
Rosetta Stone and Duolingo are both very popular language programs. Both have their strengths and disadvantages, but how do you choose the right one for your language goals? There isn’t one objective best language learning program for every type of language learner, but the right one for you will depend on what you prioritize and what other language tools you use. An Overview of Rosetta Stone Rosetta Stone has been a popular language-learning platform for decades, offering users a powerful natural immersion method to teach new languages. How does Rosetta Stone work? Rosetta Stone uses a method called Structured Immersion.…
Proficiency and fluency are two different sides of a language learner’s skill level. Which one is more important will depend on your goals.
Rocket Languages is not your typical language app. It employs a unique blend of features, such as podcast-style audio lessons, practice activities and flashcards to help you learn and retain new material. Overall, it feels like a modern take on a traditional classroom approach, though lessons can at times feel tedious and there isn’t much user flexibility within the program. What is Rocket Languages? Rocket Languages is a unique language platform that incorporates many of the traditional learning methods you’ll find in other apps, including guided audio lessons, conversational dialogues and flashcard memorization. Rocket Languages differentiates itself from other apps…
Exploring words that don’t exist in English is an interesting way to add depth to the language program you already do.
Busuu is a language learning platform that teaches you vocabulary and grammar through short, bite-sized lessons that take between 5-15 minutes to complete. The lesson content includes native-speaker audio, high-quality images and a spaced-repetition review tool to help you better retain what you’ve learned. What is Busuu? Lessons on Busuu begin by introducing you to a handful of new vocabulary words and helping you practice them through speaking, listening, reading and writing activities. At the end of each Lesson you’ll usually see a conversational dialogue or a speaking/writing prompt you can have graded by another user. Busuu has an active…
Language learning may be hard work, but it’s not all serious all the time. There are a lot of different answers to “how to learn a language.” Some of the most effective ones are unexpected. Using fun, weird, and even straight-up goofy language programs and techniques can keep it enjoyable and help you get closer to your language goals. Why fun matters in language learning Who doesn’t want to make hard things in their lives more fun? When you’re learning a language, making it fun however you define it has benefits beyond your enjoyment. Making the process of learning a…