Learning a new language expands our perspectives, enhances our communication abilities, improves our memory, and boosts our careers. It’s also an endeavor supported by an endless stream of apps and websites, each catering to different learning styles, increasing comprehension and fluency. The wide range of options can make deciding where to start your second language education difficult.
But just as we might turn to the numerous reviews of online gaming platforms before deciding where to play—there are online casinos available in California alone by the hundreds—we can turn to reviews of language learning apps and websites to find the best ones available. This article will explore the benefits and drawbacks of the top language-learning apps and websites available to give you a starting point for your language-learning journey.
Duolingo
Duolingo gamifies language learning, making it feel like a game rather than a language lesson. The app is well-suited to beginners and intermediate learners as it offers a wide range of vocabulary words and basic grammar and assists with basic pronunciation in an engaging, quiz-like fashion. Each lesson builds on the previous one, helping you build an essential foundation and adding structure to the learning process. The app also provides resources like podcasts and stories to supplement lessons.
However, a drawback to Duolingo is that it does not allow you to immerse yourself in the language by connecting you with other speakers for real conversations. That said, it’s still handy for learners to get their bearings with a new language and supplement other learning approaches. It’s also a free-to-use app, making it a top option for those on a budget.
Babbel
If you’re looking for classroom-style learning, Babbel is a great option. Through Babbel, you get live language lessons, either as part of a group or one-on-one, covering everything from reading and writing to listening and speaking. Quizzes support lessons to test your comprehension and allow you to progress to the next level. Babbel offers supplementary materials like podcasts, magazines, and videos to immerse you in the culture and language for a comprehensive learning experience.
Babbel starts at $15 per month for its basic subscription. For those looking for a language program to help them progress, it’s a worthwhile investment and a more affordable option than in-person courses.
Lingoda
Lingoda immerses you in a language with live classes, available in group or one-on-one sessions like Babbel. You’ll receive study materials before each class to help you prepare. Lingoda relies on its website and Zoom to deliver information and lessons, as it doesn’t have an app. Lingoda encourages speaking with and listening to fluent speakers, which is essential for language fluency.
Lingoda operates more like an online course than an app, with prices starting at $76 for five lessons a month.
Pimsleur
Pimsleur focuses on listening and pronunciation before learning the written elements of a language. The Pimsleur method uses “graduated interval recall,” introducing a word for repetition and recalling it after a set time. This method aims to cement the meaning and pronunciation of words and phrases for your long-term memory. Developed by Dr. Paul Pimsleur, this methodology is useful for gaining confidence in speaking a new language.
The lessons are available through the website or app, allowing you to learn whenever and wherever is convenient. Because the lessons are auditory, you can learn Spanish while cooking dinner or commuting to work, making it a useful multitasking tool. Pimsleur’s basic plan starts at $19.95 per month.
Rosetta Stone
Rosetta Stone helps new language learners by teaching fundamentals and laying the groundwork for confidence in speaking and writing. It offers small amounts of information at a time, allowing you to develop understanding without feeling overwhelmed. You’ll also find options for online tutoring through the platform.
While excellent for laying a strong foundation, Rosetta Stone falls short in immersing learners in spoken language. For this reason, many see this platform as a supplementary tool for more formal language learning.
The platform is available starting at $12 per month.
Memrise
For travelers looking to gain casual conversation capabilities, Memrise is an excellent option. It uses a flashcard-style learning approach, making it engaging and simple to comprehend words and phrases. You’ll be quizzed on your progress to help you focus on terms you might struggle with. The app will not lead to fluency, but it will help you orient yourself in a new city or country with a primary language different from your own. Best part of all? You can get started with Memrise for free.
Sign It ASL
When learning American Sign Language (ASL), Sign It ASL is a highly rated platform. It offers self-paced learning through online lessons, videos, and quizzes to master and test comprehension. It also covers ASL etiquette and culture to provide a complete understanding of the language. The lessons are set up for people of all hearing levels, making this an accessible platform for anyone wanting to learn the language.
Once purchased, lessons come with lifetime access. Lessons are sold in bundles, starting at $49.99 for lessons one to five. Sign It ASL is free for parents of deaf children under the age of three.
Conclusion
The language apps and services explored here are some of the best for a wide range of learning styles and preferences. They can help you reach the level you need to advance in a new language, whether for casual conversations while traveling or complete fluency for your personal or professional life.
