Learning a new language can be rewarding and enjoyable, but it can also be challenging and unpleasant. Many things affect how effectively you learn a language, including your motivation, learning style, goals, and available time. Fortunately, several tools and resources are available to assist you along the road, such as free language learning apps.
Do language learning apps really work?
Language learning apps are applications that you can download on your smartphone or tablet and use to learn a language anytime and anyplace. They usually offer a variety of features, such as interactive lessons, games, quizzes, flashcards, audio and video content, and more. Some are free, while others require a periodic or one-time payment.
Language learning apps are a popular and convenient way to learn a new language. But do they work? The answer depends on several factors, such as the app’s quality, the learner’s motivation, and the level of proficiency desired. Language learning apps can help acquire basic vocabulary and grammar. Still, they cannot replace the interaction and feedback from speaking with native speakers or taking formal classes.
What you need to know about language learning apps
But with so many language learning apps, how do you choose the best one? To help you with that, we have compiled a list of the best language learning apps of 2023 based on the following criteria:
Quality: The app should have high-quality content, which means the resources are accurate, engaging, and relevant to your knowledge level and learning goals.
Diversity: The app should offer a variety of activities and modes that suit different learning styles and preferences.
Feedback: The app should provide clear, constructive, and personalized feedback on your progress and performance.
Support: The app should have a supportive community of learners and teachers to interact with and learn from.
Cost: The app should have a reasonable price that matches its value and features.
Before choosing a language learning app, consider your needs, preferences, budget, and expectations. It would help to supplement your app-based learning with other resources and methods, such as books, podcasts, videos, online courses, tutors, or language exchange partners.
Language learning apps can be an excellent tool for learning a new language or enhancing your existing skills, but they are only a partial solution. You must still put in the time and effort to accomplish your goals.
What are the Best Language Learning Apps in 2023?
Here are EDU Passport’s top picks for the best language learning apps of 2023:
1. Duolingo
Duolingo is one of the world’s most popular and widely used language learning apps. It offers courses in over 40 languages, from Spanish and French to Arabic and Hindi. Duolingo uses gamification to make learning fun and addictive. You can earn points, badges, and streaks as you complete bite-sized lessons that cover vocabulary, grammar, listening, reading, writing, and speaking skills.
Moreover, you can compete with other learners on leaderboards and join clubs to chat and practice with other learners. Duolingo is free but you can upgrade to Duolingo Plus for an ad-free experience and more features. This app is ideal for beginners who want to learn the basics of a language in a fun and easy way.
On the other hand, Duolingo may not be enough for advanced learners who want to achieve fluency or master complex topics. It also focuses more on reading and writing than speaking and listening, so you may need to supplement it with other resources to improve your pronunciation and comprehension.
2. Babbel
Babbel is a learning app that helps you learn a new language in a fun and effective way. You can choose from 14 languages and learn at your own pace, with lessons that are tailored to your level and interests. The app also offers speech recognition, cultural tips, and interactive dialogues to help you practice your skills in real-life situations. Whether you want to learn for travel, work, or personal enrichment, Babbel can help you achieve your language goals.
Babbel is ideal for learners who desire to study a language for travel, business, or personal reasons. It is divided into several levels, from beginner to advanced. It also adjusts to your learning pace and style and offers customized review sessions to help you remember what you’ve learned. However, Babbel is not free. You must pay a monthly or yearly subscription cost to access all the features and information.
3. Memrise
Memrise is a language learning tool that uses memory aids such as visuals, videos, and audio to help you remember words and phrases. It provides classes in over 200 languages, including Arabic, Chinese, Esperanto, and Navajo. Memrise improves retention and recall by utilizing spaced repetition and adaptive learning algorithms. You may also design your own courses or use those published by other users.
Memrise is perfect for learners who want to expand their vocabulary and learn new expressions in a fun and creative way. It also exposes you to authentic content from native speakers, such as TV shows, podcasts, songs, and blogs. However, the software only teaches you a little grammar or syntax. You may need to use other resources to learn how to construct sentences or understand the rules of a language.
4. Lingodeer
Lingodeer is a language learning app specializing in teaching Asian languages, such as Japanese, Korean, Mandarin Chinese, Vietnamese, and Hindi. It uses a systematic and structured approach to guide you through each language’s alphabet, grammar, vocabulary, and culture. You can learn through interactive exercises, stories, games, flashcards, and quizzes. This app also provides clear explanations and examples for each concept.
Lingodeer is excellent for learners who want to learn an Asian language from scratch or deepen their knowledge of one. It covers all the essential skills: reading, writing, speaking, and listening. It also offers an offline mode, voice recording, and review mode.
However, Lingodeer is not free. Users must pay a one-time or monthly subscription fee to unlock all the features and content.
In general
Language learning apps are an ideal way to learn a new language at your own pace. In 2023, there are many options accessible, ranging from gamified applications like Duolingo to structured courses like Babbel. Each app has its own set of features and learning approach, so it’s important that you choose one that meets your language learning needs.
If you want to learn more about language learning and other educational topics, visit our EDU Blog to find more helpful tips and insights. Happy learning!
