Reviewers say the following about shopping for language learning software.

  • Consider your learning needs. If you are looking for native fluency, a detailed, intense, comprehensive program will be best. If, however, you are going on vacation or traveling for business, you may want a simpler, more focused, quick-study program that focuses on common vocabulary and pronunciation.
  • Consider your skill level. If you are a complete novice in the language you want to learn, make sure to select a program designed for beginners. Learners with pre-existing foundational skills in the desired language will want to skip beginner programs and use their time more wisely on more challenging intermediate or advanced options.
  • Assess your learning style. If you learn best by seeing, a program with videos, animations and a corresponding textbook would be the best choice. If you learn best by hearing, choose a program with plenty of pronunciation practice and sound files, perhaps including an accompanying CD or song-based curriculum. If you learn best by doing, a program with extensive games, activities, interaction and language practice will best enhance your learning.
  • Consider the reputation of the programs you are considering. Research the companies behind your potential software choices. Find out how long they have been in business, how many users they have trained, and what types of guarantees and support they offer. Read testimonials, too, but keep in mind that most companies only post items that are strongly in their favor.
  • Weigh cost. Reputable language learning software ranges from under $10 to over $500, with entries in nearly every price range. Consider how much time and energy you will actually spend on learning a language and weigh the benefits of each program you are considering against the retail price. Also consider purchasing used or factory-second/overstock software from sites such as Amazon.com.

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