Rosetta Stone TOTALe

With a stellar marketing strategy and more resources than any other language-learning product, Rosetta Stone remains an industry leader. While critics claim Rosetta Stone is pricey and will only get you so far, its TOTALe software's video chats with native speakers sets it apart from the competition.

The bottom line

A terrific resource for dedicated language learners. Whether you choose the web-based learning program or the traditional software, Rosetta Stone TOTALe offers a comprehensive, features-packed option with excellent support and small classes with a native speaker. Rosetta Stone's pricing is not competitive, however, and some users grumble about the restrictions on its online and CD plans, including costly upgrades. Regardless of the plan, Rosetta Stone TOTALe is quite an investment, but one that expert reviewers say costs less than an actual class and is probably worth it for those who are aiming for proficiency.  

Setup

Choosing online-only or traditional CDs. In a clear effort to compete with cheaper, web-based foreign language software, Rosetta Stone TOTALe offers its clients two options: an online program for $299 or Mac- and PC-compatible CD software for $399 for multiple courses (individual levels can be purchased for less.) The CD package can be used by five users on up to two computers, and comes with a UBS microphone headset and a six-month money-back guarantee if you purchase directly from the company.

The downside is that buying the CD only gives you three months of access to some web-based features such as online conversations with native speakers, games, community and mobile apps for iPad, iPhone and Android. The online option only gives you access to most of the features for a year and doesn't include the headset or access to MP3s. The software caters to beginners. Intermediate or advanced language students will find it especially difficult to choose their level (and pay for individual software) as there is no placement test and the levels aren't described.

Interface

Online or on CD, the software is sophisticated and intuitive. Rosetta Stone's interactive software is well organized and easy to navigate. The company's philosophy is that foreign languages should be learned in the same way children absorb their native tongues, meaning you won't get translation, grammar lessons or vocabulary drills. From the beginning you're hit with high-quality images of, for example, a woman sipping a cappuccino, accompanied by an audio recording and text of the phrase "the woman drinks coffee" in the foreign language. You're then tested on the terms in interactive exercises. The lack of directions or translation aims for a virtual immersion experience; it's a benefit or drawback, depending on your learning style.

Features

An interactive powerhouse. One professional reviewer accurately described Rosetta Stone's TOTALe as the "800-pound gorilla" of language software. Rosetta Stone's comprehensive learning method uses listening, reading, writing and speaking. Available in 23 languages, TOTALe's features-packed software includes interactive exercises and up to 150 hours of coursework; a virtual community that lets you practice your language skills and play games with students; and video chats with up to three other students and native "coaches" (whether they are trained language instructors is not clear.)

Complementary apps enhance mobile learning. Combined with sharp images, speech recognition technology that provides feedback on your pronunciation and a massive database of terms, "there is no denying Rosetta Stone is the language-learning leader for a reason," states another professional reviewer. Still, the language-learning software giant has been critiqued for not offering cultural lessons and context, with some claiming that despite the "immersion" learning experience, you might still struggle in a native-speaking environment. Many also say you won't quickly pick up a language using Rosetta Stone, and that it works best for longer-term learners who can wade through the extensive material.