One of the big questions when moving to another country is, do I need to learn the language, and if so, when?
Since we have already determined we will move to Central or South America, and since I am already well past the age when language learning comes easily and naturally, I have started to learn Spanish already. I have taken a couple of classes in conversational Spanish at the local community college, and have also been learning through language software.
Would love to hear from those who have also given some thought to this, or taken action.
Language Programs and Software
Here are some software recommendations for language learning:
Transparent Language
I have used Transparent Language BYKI (Before You Know It), on the computer and on my iPod. BYKI is a pretty neat flashcard-type system for vocabulary building. You can get a free version to download to your computer, and I think they have also just updated it to be downloadable to your iPhone as well.
I also have their Learn Language Now software, which includes video as well as audio. Haven’t really gotten into it that much, I’m sorry to say.
Learn a language fast with Transparent Language™
and they have over 50 languages to choose from! Arabic, Chinese, Russian and Japanese are available, as well as your standard Spanish, French, German, and Italian.
Special 20% discount during June in celebration of Father’s Day! Transparent Language Father’s Day Sale: 25% OFF entire order! Use coupon code “FATHER25” at checkout.
Pimsleur
Pimsleur advertises that its software will have you speaking any language in 10 days or they will refund your money. They claim their courses are used by the FBI and CIA, and are for people who need to learn a language quickly. I tried one of their free introductory offers, and while it was extremely basic, if the rest of their material follows the same pattern, it’s probably an excellent software course. About 40 languages available. 30-Day Money Back Guarantee.
Rosetta Stone
Rosetta Stone claims to be the fastest way to learn a language — guaranteed. Used by the State Department and the US Army.
I’ve heard great things about this program, and would love to try it. Unfortunately (see post titled “My Plans Just Either Got a Boost or a Setback), now is not the time. They have over 30 languages. According to their site, “Everything we do at Rosetta Stone revolves around a simple idea: learning a language should be fun, easy and effective. Nobody else has tapped into this, which is why most language learners lose hope or interest.” 6 Month Guarantee when purchased directly from the company.
TELL ME MORE
TELL ME MORE Language Learning Software claims more than five million satisfied users and offers lessons in 10 languages. 90-Day Money Back Guarante
Click here for Suggested language learning websites