Language Learning With Technology

Aside from the ability to communicate with others around the world, the presence of better learning technologies can really help language learners, no matter the language they’re trying to master. I’m not talking about expensive gadgets just for learning; the most helpful learning technology is easily accessible. In fact, you probably already have what you need.

Here are just a few examples of gadgets that you probably already have access to that make language learning faster and easier.

Mobile listening. With the prevalence of Ipods, MP3 players, and the like, we can now listen to hundreds of hours of a language without meeting even one native speaker, and we can attend dozens of classes without stepping foot in a language school. I firmly believe that raw content in a language is a powerful resource for learning. Audio content has never been so accessible and portable. Most people either have a cell phone, handheld game system, tablet, or portable player designed specifically for listening to audio files. Many gadgets also have the ability to play video as well, which can make listening to the language more entertaining and tangible.

Electronic reading and mobile apps. The global success of tablets, smartphones, and handheld computers (or PDA’s) means learning can be done anywhere. I can hold thousands of books on my PDA or Ipod touch, not to mention flashcard programs, videos, and learning games. The kindle is not far behind in many of these areas, and arguably better when it comes to e-reading. According to this report, more than a third adults have a smart phone. Is it really such a stretch to say that average American now has to at least one of the gadgets mentioned here? Do you?

Online materials. Whether you use one of the above-mentioned mobile devices or an old-fashioned PC or laptop to access the internet, there is a plethora of online resources designed to help you learn another language.

If I were trying to learn Latin fifty years ago, I’d have to sit for hours in a library and study ancient tomes of history, law, and poetry. I’d have to travel to a college that offers Latin classes, and send mail orders for vinyl records with audio courses. It would be expensive and time consuming, to be sure. Now, I can read the Latin Vulgate on my e-reader and simultaneously listen to it on my ipod. I can save words and make flashcards, and even connect to the internet and investigate questions—all of this without even stepping foot in a library.

It’s likely that you can do the same, all with gadgets that you probably already have access to.

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