How to Choose and Use the Best Language Learning App for You
Introduction
Learning a new language is one of the most rewarding and enriching experiences you can have. Not only does it open up new opportunities for communication, travel, work, and culture, but it also boosts your brain power, creativity, memory, and self-confidence. However, learning a new language can also be challenging, especially if you don't have access to formal classes or native speakers. That's where language learning apps come in handy.
language learning apps
What are language learning apps?
Language learning apps are software applications that you can download on your smartphone or tablet, or access on your computer or web browser. They are designed to help you learn a new language by providing you with lessons, exercises, games, quizzes, videos, audio recordings, flashcards, dictionaries, translations, and more. Some of them also allow you to interact with other learners or native speakers through chat or voice calls.
How to choose the best language learning app for you
There are many different language learning apps available in 2023, each with its own strengths and weaknesses. How do you know which one is right for you? Here are some criteria and tips to help you make an informed decision:- Your level and goals: Before you choose a language learning app, you should assess your current level and define your specific goals for learning a new language. Do you want to learn the basics, improve your vocabulary, master grammar, or become fluent? Do you want to learn for personal or professional reasons? Do you want to take a test or get a certification? Depending on your answers, you may need a different app that caters to your needs and expectations.
- Your preferred learning style and methods: Another factor to consider is your preferred learning style and methods. How do you like to learn new things? Do you prefer visual, auditory, or kinesthetic learning? Do you enjoy games, stories, songs, or podcasts? Do you learn better by yourself or with others? Do you like to follow a structured curriculum or explore topics at your own pace? Different apps use different approaches and techniques to teach languages, so you should find one that matches your preferences and motivations.
- Your available time and resources: Finally, you should be realistic about how much time and money you can invest in learning a new language. How often and how long can you study? How much can you afford to pay for a subscription or a course? Some apps are free or offer free trials, while others require a monthly or yearly fee. Some apps are designed for short and frequent sessions, while others require more time and commitment. You should choose an app that fits your schedule and budget.
How to use language learning apps effectively
Choosing the best language learning app for you is only the first step. The next step is to use it effectively and efficiently. Here are some best practices and tips to help you make the most of your app:
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- Set a regular schedule and stick to it: One of the keys to successful language learning is consistency and discipline. You should set a regular schedule for using your app, and stick to it as much as possible. Whether it's 10 minutes a day or an hour a week, find a time that works for you and make it a habit. You can also set reminders or notifications on your app or phone to keep you on track.
- Review and practice what you learn: Another key to successful language learning is review and practice. You should review and practice what you learn regularly, using different sources and activities. For example, you can use flashcards, quizzes, games, or podcasts to reinforce what you learned on your app. You can also use other apps, websites, books, magazines, movies, or music to expose yourself to more authentic and varied content in your target language.
- Seek feedback and guidance: A third key to successful language learning is feedback and guidance. You should seek feedback and guidance from native speakers, teachers, or other learners. You can use your app's chat or voice features to communicate with them, or join online communities, forums, or groups related to your target language. You can also use other apps or websites that connect you with tutors, mentors, or language exchange partners. They can help you correct your mistakes, answer your questions, explain cultural nuances, and give you tips and advice.
Comparison of popular language learning apps
Now that you know how to choose and use a language learning app, you may be wondering which one to try. There are many options available, but here are some of the most popular and effective ones in 2023, based on their features, advantages, disadvantages, and prices:
App
Languages
Features
Advantages
Disadvantages
Prices
Duolingo
40
- Gamification and adaptive learning- Short and fun lessons- Stories, podcasts, and events- Leaderboards and clubs- Offline mode
- Free and easy to use- Covers all skills (reading, writing, listening, speaking)- Motivates and rewards learners- Offers a variety of content and activities- Supports many languages, including rare ones
- Not very structured or comprehensive- May not prepare learners for real-life situations- May not teach grammar or culture well- May have some errors or inconsistencies- May be too repetitive or boring for some learners
Free (with ads)$6.99/month (Duolingo Plus)
Babbel
14
- Structured courses and real-life scenarios- Interactive dialogues and speech recognition- Review manager and vocabulary trainer- Podcasts and culture tips- Offline mode
- Paid and professional- Teaches grammar and culture well- Focuses on practical and relevant topics- Adapts to learners' needs and goals- Supports the most popular languages
- Not very gamified or fun- May not cover all skills equally- May not offer enough challenge or feedback- May have some technical issues or bugs- May be too expensive or limited for some learners
$13.95/month (1 month)$9.95/month (3 months)$8.45/month (6 months)$6.95/month (12 months)
Memrise
22
- Native speakers and spaced repetition- Video clips and audio recordings- Personalized learning goals and statistics- Leaderboards and streaks- Offline mode
- Paid and effective- Teaches pronunciation and listening well- Exposes learners to authentic and varied content- Tracks and measures learners' progress- Supports the most common languages
- Not very structured or comprehensive- May not teach grammar or culture well- May not cover all skills equally- May have some errors or inconsistencies- May be too expensive or limited for some learners
Free (limited)$8.99/month (Memrise Pro)$59.99/year (Memrise Pro)
Mondly
41
- Voice recognition and interactive dialogues- Augmented reality and virtual reality- Daily lessons and weekly quizzes- Leaderboards and achievements- Offline mode
- Paid and innovative- Teaches speaking and conversation well- Uses cutting-edge technology and immersive learning- Keeps learners engaged and motivated- Supports many languages, including rare ones
- Not very structured or comprehensive- May not teach grammar or culture well- May not cover all skills equally- May have some technical issues or bugs- May be too expensive or limited for some learners
$9.99/month (1 language)$47.99/year (1 language)$47.99/year (all languages)
Rosetta Stone
24
- Immersive learning and speech analysis- Live tutoring and group sessions- Stories and phrasebook- TruAccent and Seek & Speak- Offline mode
- Paid and reputable- Teaches grammar and culture well- Mimics natural language acquisition- Provides feedback and guidance- Supports the most popular languages
- Not very gamified or fun- May not teach vocabulary or pronunciation well- May not prepare learners for real-life situations- May have some technical issues or bugs- May be too expensive or limited for some learners
$11.99/month (3 months)$8.99/month (6 months)$7.99/month (12 months)$5.99/month (24 months)
Conclusion
Learning a new language is a wonderful and rewarding journey, and language learning apps can help you along the way. They can provide you with convenient, flexible, and fun ways to learn a new language, at your own pace and level. However, not all apps are created equal, and you should choose one that suits your needs, preferences, and goals. You should also use your app effectively, by setting a regular schedule, reviewing and practicing what you learn, and seeking feedback and guidance. Whether you choose Duolingo, Babbel, Memrise, Mondly, Rosetta Stone, or another app, we hope you enjoy your language learning experience!
FAQs
Here are some frequently asked questions about language learning apps:
Q: Can I learn a new language with just an app?
A: No, you cannot learn a new language with just an app. An app is a useful tool, but it is not enough to make you fluent or proficient in a new language. You need to supplement your app with other sources and activities, such as books, podcasts, movies, music, websites, etc. You also need to practice your skills with real people, either online or offline.
Q: How long does it take to learn a new language with an app?
A: It depends on many factors, such as your level, goals, motivation, time, effort, etc. There is no definitive answer to this question, as different people learn at different speeds and in different ways. However, according to some estimates, it can take anywhere from 600 to 2200 hours to reach an intermediate or advanced level in a new language. That means it can take from 6 months to 10 years to learn a new language with an app, depending on how often and how long you use it.
Q: Which language is the easiest or hardest to learn with an app?
A: It depends on your native language, your previous knowledge, and your personal interest. Generally speaking, languages that are closely related to your native language, or that share a lot of vocabulary, grammar, or writing system, are easier to learn than languages that are very different. For example, if you are a native English speaker, you may find it easier to learn Spanish, French, or German than Mandarin, Arabic, or Japanese. However, this is not a rule, and you may find some languages easier or harder than others based on your own experience and preference.
Q: What are some of the benefits of learning a new language with an app?
A: There are many benefits of learning a new language with an app, such as:
- Convenience: You can learn anytime and anywhere, as long as you have your device and an internet connection.
- Flexibility: You can learn at your own pace and level, and choose the topics and activities that interest you.
- Fun: You can enjoy games, stories, videos, and other interactive features that make learning more enjoyable and engaging.
- Feedback: You can get instant feedback and corrections on your performance and progress.
- Support: You can access a community of learners and speakers who can help you with your questions and doubts.
Q: What are some of the drawbacks or challenges of learning a new language with an app?
A: There are also some drawbacks or challenges of learning a new language with an app, such as:
- Limitations: You may not learn everything you need to know about a language, such as grammar rules, cultural aspects, or slang expressions.
- Repetition: You may get bored or frustrated by repeating the same exercises or content over and over again.
- Isolation: You may miss the human interaction and social aspect of learning a language with other people.
- Distraction: You may get distracted by other apps, notifications, or messages on your device.
- Cost: You may have to pay for some apps or features that are not free or cheap.
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