Fri, 25 May 2018 13:30:03 +0000There are various ways to start learning a language, but lately, the mobile apps have had a surge in popularity which brings me to ask these questions:

– Do they really work?

– Will they get me to a high level of knowledge of the language?

Let’s focus on the first question and see how…

There are various ways to start learning a language, but lately, the mobile apps have had a surge in popularity which brings me to ask these questions:

– Do they really work?

– Will they get me to a high level of knowledge of the language?

Let’s focus on the first question and see how effective mobile apps can be.

1- They take away stress

Starting to learn a new skill can be a daunting task at times, and facing the unknown can be really stressful for some. The app takes the stress away because of the gamification within it. You are rewarded with stickers and points.

2- They are aimed at beginners.

* You are drilled on simple sentences like ” I am a woman” ” the woman eats “.

* The sentences are not put in context

* There is no real communication

* They don’t go ahead of the basic levels even when buying the paid features.

3- it’s a good alternative if you lack time and money

You do not need more than five or ten minutes a day to go through the daily sessions and as mentioned there are free. The paid versions are no more than a few pounds(£) a month.

4- No adequate feedback

These programs cannot detect certain mistakes, so you will be unable to improve in these aspects.

5- You get easily bored

If you only study on the app, the daily practices get too repetitive and it is more than likely that you will call it a day.

I recommend these language apps only as a support to your main study, meaning following a course. You will get multiple benefits from it:

1- You learn much more in a traditional language course.

2- You are more likely to stick longer with a course, especially if you are highly motivated.

3- You can get to more advanced levels

4- You practice the language by interacting with others either in a classroom environment or talking on the phone or online with a tutor. You learn to get a real feel of the language through these channels.

5- You can get an online course to suit your busy schedule. You learn as much as in a traditional course.

6- You will be able to get a proof of study if needed.

As mentioned before the language apps should be used to supplement your language learning but never as a substitute of a more traditional approach.

What do you think? Have you studied with a language app? let me know in the comments.

Do you want to know your level at the language you’re currently studying? Take this Quiz!

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