Six Awesome Ways to Learn a New Language

Learning a new language takes nothing more than time and dedication. Luckily, with today’s digital technology you don’t have to spend huge sums of cash or even leave your home. With so many different options to choose from it can be difficult to pinpoint the best way to learn. This guide has been written to help you make a more informed decision on how to move forward.

Phone-Based Applications

The smartphone revolution has had the largest impact of all on polyglots. With apps like Babbel and Google Translate – the latter of which can transcribe photos in real time – you simply cannot ignore the influence these programs can have on your ability to learn. And with new technology making it easier to print photos from an iPhone, getting your own study materials directly from your smartphone has never been easier.

Software-Based Courses

Software-based courses are definitely one of the most popular ways of learning a new language; however, many people who use them fail to find the motivation to see it through to the end. Companies such as Rosetta Stone and Teach Yourself sell software learning tools separated by skill level – beginner, intermediate and advanced, allowing you to literally work your way up the ladder. While software is an excellent supplement for learning, you’d still require some form of interaction in order to truly master the language.

University and College

CoursesTaking language courses at a university or college can be highly effective. Most courses are only part-time and require 3-12 hours per week of on-site training. The main benefit of learning in a university environment is the atmosphere. Morale is one of the most important elements of learning and that’s exactly what you get when you’re surrounded by other like-minded people. Some language specific colleges run intensive lessons that focus on specific sectors, such as business English and academic English. This can be highly beneficial if you have a specific goal in mind.

Private Tuition

Private tuition is one of the more costly options; however, if you’re learning a language by yourself taking a couple lessons each month is certainly recommended. While there’s little you can achieve in a private 1-hour lesson with regards to memorizing words and phrases, privates are excellent for putting what you’ve learned elsewhere into practice and getting feedback.

Personal Skype Tuition

Skype provides an excellent opportunity to take personal one-to-one tuition without excessive costs. Websites such as Verbal Planet and Live Lingua have strict policies to ensure you are taught only by those who are qualified. Most teachers charge a very modest rate and will tailor sessions specifically to your needs. While Skype may not be as good as ‘in-person’ private tuition, it’s certainly convenient as you can learn from the comfort of your own home.

Writer and humanitarian from London, England.