|
August 30, 2011
One of the most common complaints students have with language software is the whole isolation of it. You’re, basically, studying with a computer, with no one to riff ideas on, ask questions to, or share thoughts with. Many can find this approach to learning both lonely and uninspiring.
Despite this latest weakness, though, software-based learning brings plenty of upside that makes a lot of people choose it over other resources. The scheduling flexibility, interactivity and cost-effectiveness of language learning programs make them an attractive option for many adult students.
One possible compromise is to work with a language software in pairs. Meet up with a learning buddy, sit down on in front of a computer and go through the lessons together. That way, you get all the benefits of a language software without putting yourself in isolation.
Another way to get around the limitations of language software is to team up with other people who use the same program. You can set your schedules so that you’re studying the same lessons and modules at around the same time. That way, you can meet up (or even group chat online) at the end of the week to hold group sessions for practice and sharing.
January 22, 2011
Learning a foreign language efficiently usually requires spending some money. You pay for lessons, software, books and other materials that are designed to aid in your language acquisition. If you’re serious about your learning, the costs can pile up.
During the last few years, we’ve been seeing more and more free resources for language learning. There are now many free websites devoted to the endeavor, as well as free language software and other materials. The question is: are these free language tools any good?
I won’t discount the value of free language software and similarly cost-free materials. After talking to some people who have used them, I do believe a lot of them are useful to a certain extent. In fact, I’ve met language learners who rely solely on freely-available learning tools and they look like they’re doing well.
Given the choice, though, I’d always go for a paid tool than a free language software. Why? The paid stuff are usually much more thorough, more organized, more complete and have undergone more rigorous testing. Having been developed for commercial sales, the publishers invested more time, research and money on them. As such, commercial language software typically produces better results, compared to those offered as free downloads.
January 12, 2011
If you did your homework before you bought it, your Spanish language software probably comes with more than just regular lessons that you can sit through. Chances are, there are a whole bunch of tools that you can use for exercise and practice of all the language concepts you pick up.
Some of these useful tools can include:
- Word puzzles and games. Many Spanish language software use word puzzles and word games as a way to reinforce lessons. If you can, look for software that generates these games dynamically, as that can lead to plenty of repeat play down the line.
- Speaking practice. Yes, software can record and give feedback on your pronunciation of various Spanish words and phrases. While some deride the lack of accuracy in some of these tools, they do help, especially if you end up with one of the better titles out there.
- List builders. Most Spanish language software will let you build lists of words and phrases you’ve gone over (some will do it automatically by default), so you can have it as an instant reference.
- Flash card makers. So far, I’ve only seen two Spanish language software that include flash card programs, but most of them really should. Flash cards are among the most useful tools for committing anything to memory. If your software does have one either bundled or built-in, you should definitely put it to good use.
November 25, 2010
If you’re going to study a language, you might as well go all out. Half-hearted attempts may get you somewhere, but it’s far from the way to truly effective learning.
Lack of motivation is a common problem among many adult learners. In fact, it’s probably more common than you already suspect. Many of us are simply not motivated to do further studies — we’ve done all that grind before back in elementary, high school, college and graduate school, after all. It’s just a lot more difficult to get yourself to do it now.
That’s why finding a compelling reason to learn a language is such a crucial step for everyone. If you don’t have that motivation to drive you, it’s easy to cruise your way through any language learning program, even one you paid good money out of your pocket for!
It’s also one of the reasons why I prefer language software to classroom settings. Fact is, many students in language classrooms don’t take their studies seriously. When you’re a fellow student who works nine hours a day on top of your classroom responsibilities, it’s easy to be swayed to follow their lead.
With home-based language programs, you’re solely responsible for your own attitude. There’s no one to sway you either way, so if you can find that compelling reason, it’s normally easier to stay on course.
November 8, 2010
There are plenty of avenues out there for language learning. Despite our praises for software programs, they only represent a part of the vast language learning landscape. How would you know if language software is the right medium for you?
- You need a flexible study schedule. If you are balancing many things and need a medium that can conform to your busy schedule, a language program should fit the bill nicely. While you will still need to work with them regularly, language programs are generally designed to conform to your schedule.
- You do better without people looking over your shoulders. Some people just prefer learning without having someone regularly peering over at what they’re doing. If you’re one of them, you will likely be comfortable training with a language software.
- You’re self-motivated. If you can work without needing an authority figure to help you set goals and keep you on-task, then a language software should be right up your alley.
- You can resist constant distractions. One of the biggest banes of studying from home is it makes you susceptible to all kinds of distractions. If you can be disciplined enough to resist disturbances, then a language software will be very useful to your efforts.
November 5, 2010
Language software makes it easier for busy professionals to get adequate language training without having it meddle with their schedules. While the same requirements of learning apply, there are some variables that tend to matter more than others when it comes to being successful using this medium.
Time management. When you use a language software, managing your time becomes entirely your job. Forget about a teacher setting deadlines and a school making your schedule – you’re doing all that by yourself. Your best recourse is to find a normal study schedule and stick with it, even if that means putting your language learning at a priority over other important activities.
Balancing personal business. Convenience is a major benefit of software-based language studies. Since you can do it at home, in your own time, you can build the whole process around your own needs. However, you’ll need to be able to balance it with the rest of your life, including work, school and family obligations, making sure those other areas don’t end up holding you back.
Effort. In self-paced learning courses, you are solely responsible for your results. You can’t blame anyone else. That means, you get the results commensurate with the effort you give. The harder you work, the better your chances of ending up with something positive.
Study environment. You may not realize this now, but your place of study can have a serious impact in your quality of learning. Find a comfortable and private place in the house where you can work undistracted for the duration of each session.
« Newer Posts — Older Posts » |
