Second Language Software Review

Introduction to Second Language Software

Reviews of language learning software pepper the Internet at educational and commercial sites alike. Many supposed reviews are simply direct marketing pages dedicated to selling a particular product. But education sites -- such as Discovery Education, LearningWare Reviews, Learning Village and others -- offer realistic reviews based on real-world home and classroom testing. These reviews proved most helpful as we compiled this report.

Consumer Reports and most other product review sites have virtually no information on language learning software. In addition, software-focused sites were of little help; only ZDNet.com and PC Magazine offered reviews of language learning software options.

Arguably the best-known name in language software, Rosetta Stone offers the three-level Value Set (*est. $500) in 31 languages. Unlike the quick and simple approach of many other options, the Rosetta Stone software offers intense, highly comprehensive, broad-based language learning. Although pricey, this software promises the equivalent of a full year of college language training in 92 lessons with 250 hours of instruction. A curriculum textbook is also included.

Rosetta Stone software lacks some of the sheer entertainment of other programs, but focuses instead on leading users to fluency. In fact, some reviewers at BrightHub.com and users on HomeSchoolReviews.com and Amazon.com stated outright that while they learned a great deal using Rosetta Stone, they didn't have much fun doing it. Spoken and written language are covered intensely, with a concentration on five key skill sets: listening and reading combined, listening only, reading only, speaking and writing. Grammar, sentence structure, vocabulary and other elements are included, along with opportunities to practice and reinforce learning with quizzes, tests and speech recording and recognition capabilities. Reviewers at 101Language.com and BrightHub.com liked the breadth and comprehensiveness of the program, but felt it might be discouraging for users who want to simply "pick up" a language.

There are many benefits to Rosetta Stone software, and users who faithfully and consistently use the product should gain near-fluency. Reviewers at several sites and users alike point out, however, that it is a long-term, intensive learning process that requires a high level of dedication and that it can be boring and repetitive. Some adult learners at Amazon.com and Bright Hub report challenges with the immersion-style presentation of Rosetta Stone and both reviewers and users question the high price tag. Many users also note compatibility issues with Microsoft Vista and Mac operating systems.

A final note on Rosetta Stone relates to the ultimate goals of the user. Reviewers at Discovery Education, ZDnet and Software.com agree that consumers seeking vocabulary proficiency will do well with Rosetta Stone, as it provides a broad vocabulary base and a wealth of words to learn. The same reviewers, as well as those at Bright Hub, assert that those looking for a solid grammar foundation will likely be disappointed, however, as the immersion-style of the program does not lend itself well to lessons in grammar and sentence structure. Additionally, reviewers at Discovery Education, French Courseware and Macworld reported that words and phrases learned, particularly in early lessons, are impractical and will not lead to speaking fluency, especially with native speakers. These reviewers, as well as users at Amazon.com and Bright Hub, pointed out that the software is lacking in the slang and colloquialisms of true native speakers, so you will never truly speak like a native, a primary claim of the Rosetta Stone software.