Published on December 2nd, 2020 | by Maryn Mcdonnell

5 Ways Technology Can Help with Learning New Languages

How we exchange information has been changed by technology. From learning new languages to workmates sending information across the world in seconds, technology has been a game-changer. It has made language transfer easier. Rather than physically looking for native speakers of the language, you can simply visit one of the many websites online offering language courses. It is important to encourage children to learn new languages.

These websites make the lessons interesting. You can even take lessons to Learn Luxembourgish Online. They make learning fun by using memory games. The lessons are in video format and are made accessible at any time of your convenience. Not only are you listening to the native languages, but you are also learning at a pace suitable to you. Thus, there is no reason not to learn a new language. Take your spanish lesson online and enjoy the learning sitting at home. Language learning and technology, therefore, go hand in hand. Here are some ways to use technology for language learning.

1. Changing language settings on social media accounts and devices

The phone you use regularly can be set to various languages. Also, social media accounts can be used to learn major languages, such as learning Spanish on Facebook. The translations may not always be accurate, making things awkward at first. By changing the language preference, you are forced to interact with it and learn the new language. Over time, you will get used to using the gadgets with the new language, as well as navigating the sites.

2. Using instant translate

With a single click, you can, for example, know what “chair” is in Japanese, Spanish, or French. With translation apps and sites, you can also translate foreign words into English. Translating a word to various languages a few years ago would have required thick books for research. Technology has really reduced the time required to get a translation.

3. Video chatting with native speakers

Free video calling services such as Google Hangouts and Skype allow you to connect with people across the globe in an instant. Using this technology, you can easily link with a native speaker at your convenience. With a stable internet connection, and a google or skype account, you can endlessly engage with a native speaker for more in-depth learning. To find a native speaker, you can post an ad or ask around for connections to a native speaker. According to EFL Learning Centre, an English school in Chiang Mai, a positive multicultural learning atmosphere is good for students’ language learning development.

4. Learn new languages during car rides

People spend plenty of time in their cars during traffic. That is a huge part of our lives spent idly sitting or listening to music. This time can be put into use. You can purchase CDs or use online applications connected to your car using Bluetooth to learn to speak various languages such as Spanish, Japanese, or Korean.

5. Using YouTube for learning

YouTube offers many opportunities for learning a language in your free time. You have an endless selection of teachers on many channels. It is advisable to pick a teacher to whom you respond well. Native speakers are also available to watch as they speak their dialects. The channel or video may not necessarily be on language learning. It might be about cooking pasta, for example. You can use that video to listen closely to the speaker’s intonation or how they pronounce certain words. Additionally, English language learning for kids is made easier by using YouTube.

Tags: languages, learning, technology

About the Author

Maryn Mcdonnell is a creative content writer. She spends her days working closely with many entrepreneurs and creative thinkers internationally. Her interests include travel, self-improvement, and technology. Find Maryn on Twitter @MarynMcdonnell.