Top Apps For Language Learning
Learning a new language can be fun and a great way to have a competitive edge in career choices. There are many other benefits too. For instance, foreign language study can help create a positive attitude toward people who may be different. Your analytical skills improve considerably if you choose to study a foreign language. It also provides you with a chance to deal with another culture to enjoy some amazing benefits and improve your opportunities in business, government, technology, law, industry, military, marketing, etc.
But the question is, “Do you always need to take classes and attend workshops to learn a new language?” Not really, as now you can use several apps to become fluent in foreign languages. Here are some top choices to consider:
1. Memrise
Available for web, Android, and iOs, Memrise is among the most popular language-learning apps available today. You’re going to love it for its amazing teaching method that uses a combination of memory techniques to get good results. It also relies on an advanced algorithm to enjoy a customized learning experience.
The integration of short videos of native speakers is another amazing feature, as it helps you get a better idea of authentic accents and culture. You will benefit from this feature, especially if you consider yourself an auditory and visual learner. The app is also capable of tracking the number of words you’ve learned. The only thing to bear in mind is that though the first level of your course is free, you need to pay to unlock all of its amazing features.
2. Pimsleur
This foreign language learning app is a great choice for the learner on the move. It uses the basic approach to teach you a new language. You will be listening to new words, repeating them, and then answering questions to improve your knowledge of a foreign language. Most people manage to achieve some form of language proficiency by committing to half an hour a day for a month.
You can also unlock some interesting features exclusive to the premium users only – some of these include quizzes, flashcards, and a skills section mainly for travelers. Overall, it’s one impressive app to learn a new language, but some users are not that happy for missing the writing instruction. Moreover, you can’t change the speed of the audio playback, which may be a bit frustrating at times.
3. Tandem
If you want to learn a new language directly from a native speaker, you’re going to love this app. It allows you to connect with users who are willing to teach you their native language – they might be interested in learning yours too. You can improve learning through audio, text, and video chat. As there’s no set curriculum, you will be free to work with your partner to decide the direction of your training.
Using the app, you can record an audio message and ask a native speaker to offer suggestions to correct your pronunciation. Going for the Pro version will help you have access to advanced features, including tools to find partners using location listings. Just remember that though the app really helps you learn and polish your language skills, you will be meeting up new people – and strangers of course – so it is imperative to follow safety tips mentioned on the platform.
4. Duolingo
Those looking for a free language-learning app are going to love Duolingo. You will find it interesting, as it helps you learn a foreign language through games. Because it relies on games, it helps a learner stay motivated throughout the training process. It is easier to be consistent when you’d be willing to devote more time to accomplish daily streaks and earn extra points. You will also be able to earn virtual currency and get a chance to compete with others sitting anywhere in the world using the new Leaderboards feature.
You will also be able to utilize additional learning resources, such as Duolingo Stories, which will be of great assistance to learners of French, Spanish, Portuguese, and German. Remember, though you don’t need to pay anything to use the app, you may want to upgrade to Duolingo Plus to have an ad-free experience and gain access to some interesting downloadable lessons to learn a language offline.
Conclusion
The fact is that we live in a world where so many differences can contribute to dividing us, but language can always serve as a unifying bridge for meaningful connection. Interestingly, there’s an increasing desire to learn a new language, be it to improve professional marketability, connect with family heritage, follow a passion project, or simply polish rusty skills. Whatever the objective, just be sure to incorporate language learning apps into your strategy to help get better results. Choose the ones listed above to get you started in the right way.
