In today's globalized world, language barriers can be a significant challenge for immigrants. Whether for personal, educational, or professional reasons, learning the local language is crucial for integration and success. Thankfully, technology has made this process more accessible and efficient through language learning apps. These apps offer a convenient, flexible, and often cost-effective way to learn a new language.
In this article, we will explore the best language learning apps for immigrants, helping you find the right tool to enhance your language skills.
Do Language Learning Apps Work?
The effectiveness of language learning apps has been a topic of interest among educators and learners alike. According to research by The Open University, there is substantial evidence supporting the effectiveness of these apps in language acquisition. The study indicates that "if you regularly put the time in with an app, you'll almost certainly see your understanding of your chosen language's lexicon, syntax, and grammar improve".
This means that with consistent use, these apps can significantly enhance your language proficiency, making them a valuable resource for immigrants looking to adapt to a new linguistic environment.
Best Language Learning Apps for Immigrants and Refugees
For immigrants and refugees, finding the right language learning app can make a significant difference in their ability to integrate and thrive in a new country. Here is a list of some of the best language learning apps tailored to meet the needs of this community:
Duolingo
Duolingo is the most popular language-learning platform and the most downloaded education app in the world, boasting more than 500 million users. The company's mission is to make education free, fun, and available to all. Designed to feel like a game, Duolingo is scientifically proven to be effective.
The app employs bite-sized lessons that include speaking, listening, reading, and writing to teach users a new language or help them brush up on a secondary language. Lessons are also gamified, offering rewards and other benefits for making progress, which provides more incentive to keep learning.
Price:
Free
Best for:
Overall
Babbel
Babbel is a subscription-based language learning app available on web, iOS, and Android platforms. Babbel offers courses in 14 different languages, including German, English, French, Spanish, Italian, Turkish, Norwegian, Danish, Russian, Brazilian Portuguese, Polish, Indonesian, Swedish, and Dutch.
The app provides a comprehensive learning experience by blending app-based courses with live online classes, podcasts, games, and more.
Price:
$13 per month (for 6 months)
Best for:
Comprehensive Learning Experience
Rosetta Stone
Rosetta Stone taps into your brain's innate ability to learn new languages, making you feel comfortable with everyday communication. The best way to pick up a new language is through immersion, and Rosetta Stone facilitates this by helping you learn quickly through everyday scenarios, interactive activities, and audio from native speakers.
With a variety of speaking-focused lessons and features, instantaneous pronunciation feedback, and a near-five-star rating in the app store, the award-winning Rosetta Stone mobile app is an excellent way to learn new languages.
Price:
$15.99/month for 3 months
$13.99/month for 12 months
$399 one-time payment for a lifetime subscription
Best for:
Immersive Learning
Memrise
Memrise offers an engaging and effective way to learn languages by providing access to over 48,000 conversations between real native speakers. This helps learners understand authentic accents and everyday language use. The app features videos based on user interests, allowing you to learn topics you are passionate about.
Additionally, Memrise offers unlimited speaking practice with feedback through MemBot, their AI language tutor, which helps build confidence in private before speaking with native speakers in real life.
Price:
Pro membership:
$22.99/month
$89.99/year
$249.99/lifetime one-time purchase
Best for:
Interactive Learning and Speaking Practice
Drops
Drops is an app designed to help you learn vocabulary in a new language through the use of picture cues and repeated activities, aiding in the transfer of words into long-term memory. With a selection of 5,000 words and phrases, Drops ensures you start with the most useful and relevant vocabulary.
The app is designed for casual progress that fits your schedule, with reminders and streaks to help you stay focused. Drops enhances your practical speaking and listening skills, building your confidence to communicate effectively in any situation.
Price:
Base program is free
Premium subscription:
$13/month
$69.99/year
$159.99/lifetime one-time purchase
Best for:
Vocabulary Building
Busuu
Busuu is a language learning platform that offers online courses and interactions with native speakers at an affordable price. Each language course on Busuu is developed using the Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR), an internationally recognized standard for creating language lessons.
The CEFR is broken down into six stages, ranging from complete beginner to completely fluent. Busuu’s language courses cover the first four stages of the CEFR, from A1 to B2 level. Additionally, Busuu’s English course covers the level above B2, C1.
Price:
Free option
Premium subscription:
$13.90/month for 1 month
$8.45/month for 6 months
$6.95/month for 12 months
Best for:
Structured Learning with Native Speaker Interaction
Lirica
Lirica uses rapid-fire exercises based on memorable hit songs to help you master a new language while also getting to know the culture. The app leverages the power of music to make language learning memorable and engaging. Songs are used in classrooms worldwide to engage students and illuminate cultural contexts. Lirica's mission is to place this powerful classroom learning interaction directly into the hands of people, allowing them to learn anywhere, whenever they want.
Price:
$9 per month
Best for:
Learning Through Music and Culture
Language Reactor
Language Reactor is a powerful toolbox designed for learning languages by utilizing native materials. This tool makes studying more effective, interesting, and enjoyable by allowing you to improve your skills on your own through watching films and series in the language you study.
Price:
Free (basic features)
Premium options available (prices may vary)
Best for:
Learning Through Multimedia and Native Content
Pimsleur
Pimsleur combines the ease and interactivity of language learning apps with the convenience and power of the portable Pimsleur Method™. This approach makes learning languages online more accessible and effective than ever. Pimsleur offers core lessons, reading exercises, a voice coach, digital flashcards, and more.
The program promises easy listening and rewarding results with just 30 minutes of practice a day, allowing you to discover new worlds, experience life-changing adventures, and create unforgettable memories.
Price:
$14.95 per month
Best for:
Audio-Based Learning and Convenience
FluentU
FluentU offers a unique approach to language learning by using TV show clips, movie scenes, and music videos. The platform provides a curated library suitable for all learners, from beginners to advanced. FluentU allows users to watch videos with interactive subtitles and translations, making it easier to understand and learn in context.
The platform also includes courses with video quizzes and lessons, ensuring a comprehensive learning experience. With its mobile apps, FluentU provides full immersion, enabling you to learn anytime and anywhere.
Price:
$29.99 per month
$359.99 annually
Best for:
Learning Through Media and Full Immersion
Hello English
Hello English is Asia’s largest online English learning platform, with over 50 million users. Its mission is to empower users with personalized English learning and improved job outcomes through AI, voice, and mobile technology.
The app offers 425 free, offline interactive lessons that cover English speaking and grammar. Users can engage in reading, writing, listening, and speaking exercises, chat with teachers for grammar and translation questions, and practice with daily news articles. The platform also includes a 10,000-word dictionary for learning and pronouncing new words.
Price:
Free version
Pro: $59.99 per year
Best for:
Comprehensive English Learning and Job Preparation
Benefits of Language Learning Apps for Immigrants
Language learning apps offer numerous advantages for immigrants striving to adapt to a new linguistic environment. Here are some key benefits:
Flexibility
Language learning apps provide the convenience of learning at your own pace and on your own schedule, making it easier to fit language study into a busy life.
Gamification
Many apps incorporate game-like elements such as points, levels, and rewards, making the learning process more engaging and enjoyable.
Immediate Feedback
These apps often provide instant corrections and feedback on exercises, helping learners quickly identify and correct mistakes.
Personalization
Language learning apps can tailor lessons to individual needs and skill levels, ensuring that users receive the most relevant and effective instruction.
More About Language Learning Apps
In this section, we'll address some frequently asked questions about language learning apps to help you get started and make the most of your language learning journey.
How do I start learning a new language?
Begin by selecting a language learning app that suits your needs and goals. Many apps offer placement tests to determine your proficiency level, helping you start at the right place. Consistency is key, so set aside regular time each day for practice.
When is the best time to start learning a new language?
The best time to start learning a new language is now. The sooner you begin, the sooner you will start making progress. Language learning apps offer flexibility, allowing you to learn whenever it fits your schedule.
How long does it take to learn a new language?
The time it takes to learn a new language varies depending on factors such as the complexity of the language, the amount of time you dedicate to practice, and your learning style. Consistent daily practice with a language learning app can significantly speed up the process.
Is there a free language learning app?
Yes, there are free language learning apps available. One popular free app is Duolingo, which offers a wide range of languages and features designed to make learning fun and effective.
Learn English With a Language Learning App
Language learning apps offer a powerful and convenient way to learn English, providing flexibility, gamification, immediate feedback, and personalization to enhance your learning experience. By using these tools, immigrants can effectively improve their language skills, aiding in their integration and success in a new country.
For those who need additional support, Equity Languages & Employment Services is here to help. Whether you need assistance with translating documents or interpreting services, Equity can provide the expert help you need to navigate your new environment with confidence.
Book a free call with Equity Languages & Employment Services to learn more!
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