There are many different platforms, from sites that offer language courses to YouTube videos and podcasts, that could help you learning new language without ever having to leave your home. The world is becoming more globalized by the second – learning a new language is one of the best ways to become connected with it and understand its nuances. Here are 6 foolproof ways you can start learning today!
1. Websites For Learning Languages
One of the best ways to learn a foreign language is through online courses. Many websites offer free or paid courses, and some even have lessons for specific levels, such as beginner, intermediate, or advanced. You can study Arabic from home at Al Kunuz no matter the level you’re at. Likewise, you can study Spanish on a similar website. These websites are beneficial because they contain anything from vocabulary and grammar lessons, practices, video lessons, and more. In addition, many of these websites also have online communities where you can connect with other language learners to practice and get feedback.
2. YouTube Channels
If you’re more of a visual learner or want to supplement your course with interactive content, there are a plethora of great YouTube channels that can help you learn a foreign language. Some channels focus on grammar while others teach vocabulary and phrases. A few of our favorites include SpanishPod101, Learn French with Vincent, and ItalianPod101.
3. Podcasts
Similar to YouTube channels, podcasts are a great way to learn a foreign language while on the go. They’re perfect for long commutes or walks because you can listen to them without having to look at anything. Plus, there are so many different podcasts that cater to all levels of learners – from beginner to advanced. Some of our favorites include Coffee Break Spanish, A Taste of French, and Absolute Beginner Japanese. Another great benefit of podcasts is that they’re usually free to listen to and you can find them on Spotify, depending on the creator.
4. Language Exchange Forums
If you’re feeling brave and want to practice your new language skills with a native speaker in person, language exchange forums are a great way to do so. Tons of websites host these forums, such as Italki and Lang-8. You can search for a forum that focuses on the language you’re learning and then post in the Introductions section to find a language exchange partner.
If you’re not interested in doing a language exchange, or if there aren’t any forums that focus on the language you’re learning, there are still plenty of great options available. Instead of looking for a forum that’s specific to your language, try finding a general language forum. These forums are perfect for asking questions about grammar and vocabulary, and sometimes even have native speakers who are willing to help out.
5. Apps
If you want to take your language learning on the go, there are plenty of language learning apps that can help you do so. Duolingo is one of our favorites because it’s gamified, making it addictive and fun to use. Other apps, such as Babbel and Memrise, focus on teaching vocabulary and grammar lessons. And finally, Google Translate is great for translating words and phrases from one language to another. Beware, Google Translate often makes mistakes with longer sentences, so use this only for informal situations. These apps include a variety of features, such as audio lessons, quizzes, and more, so you can find the perfect one for your needs. Also, most of these apps are free to use, making them a great option for budget-minded learners.
6. Immersion Programs
The best way to learn a foreign language is to immerse yourself in it. This can be done by traveling to a country that speaks the language you’re learning or by finding a program that will immerse you in the language for an extended period. For example, if you want to learn Spanish, you could travel to Spain or study at a school like the Colegio de España in Mexico City. These programs offer great value for your money and are an amazing opportunity to improve your language skills quickly. In addition, they’re perfect for those who want to learn more about the culture of the country where the language is spoken.
There are a variety of different ways to learn a foreign language. Whether you want to focus on grammar, vocabulary, or speaking skills, there’s a method out there that’s perfect for you. No matter what your learning style is or how much time you have available, there’s sure to be an option that’s perfect for you. So what are you waiting for? Start learning today!