The database committee has been exploring alternatives to Rosetta Stone, as the electronic product will no longer be offered to libraries after current subscriptions expire (more on this as I learn more). Auralog is currently the big dog in the language learning database field, and a helpful colleague who went to ALA midwinter was able to secure a trial (thanks, Holly!). However, I wonder: is an online database the best way to learn a language?
As with most other things these days, language learning is undergoing a 2.0 phase, with plenty of startups looking to jump on the social networking bandwagon. A recent TechCrunch post summarizes key players in the field, and includes links so that you can test-drive them yourself.
Of the pack, I would be most likely to sign up for LiveMocha, which appears to balance the learning and social networking aspects of the platform most neatly. Runner-up points go to Xlingo, with its ambitious Advanced Search scope that just might inspire folks to sign up to teach less popular languages (I’d take a crack at Pashto if it were offered, wouldn’t you?). And you have to wonder if libraries might, someday, purchase products like Mango Languages’ Mango on the Go.
So, wonderfully creative innovations. But, I repeat: is this the best way to learn? For those who are not technologically savvy, or prefer f2f interactions, libraries will, hopefully, continue to offer good old-fashioned CDs and programming opportunities.
What do you think? What resources and materials would help you best learn a new language?
amy said,
January 18, 2008 at 8:28 pm
we have 150+ pimsleur titles via netlibrary, for your downloading pleasure!
(which is awesome, cause they’re unlimited access and way way cheaper than buying new sets whenever someone swipes the spanish.)
Kevin said,
January 19, 2008 at 9:48 pm
Hi Leigh,
Just wondering if you had a chance to look at italki.com?
All of the networks have the language partner search function. Only now are the networks starting to differentiate past that.
italki.com offers:
* A question and answers function – language learners can ask a question and get an answer from the community.
* Shared files – language learners can download (and upload) free files about language learning. For example, downloading a free textbook.
* Language resource directory – a place to find other language learning resources on the web.
* A Facebook application – users can connect to each other through facebook or the website itself.
I hope you’ll take a look at italki.com when you get a chance as well. I think italki’s userbase is significantly larger than xlingo, and possibly more active than livemocha.
Best regards,
Kevin
italki.com
Leigh Anne Vrabel said,
January 22, 2008 at 7:02 pm
Kevin: Thanks for the input. I will definitely have to make time to go check out your site.
Amy: Right you are! Thanks for the reminder about NetLibrary – although, when I say “reminder,” I mean “didn’t know we had pimsleur in that format, too.”
To replace Rosetta « BALIS Electronic Services Committee said,
January 25, 2008 at 7:43 pm
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