Technology has altered the way we lead our lives. From the way we shop to the way we socialise, technology has ensured that it becomes a smoother experience for mankind. One such revolution has been brought in the field of education. Online learning courses are rapidly becoming a preferred choice, and more people are signing up for e-courses to acquire new skills and expand their knowledge. Many people are now turning their attention towards online language learning courses and the rate of enrolment in such courses is at an all-time high. Studies have shown that people who can speak more than one language are smarter than the ones who speak just one language. While this definitely is a big advantage, there are also advantages in practising languages online.
1.Variety
Online learning gives you the option to choose from a wide variety of interests. One can choose from a wide array of languages, from English to Polynesian. All you have to do is simply decide upon the language you wish to learn!
2. New learning methods
Language learning can also be tricky. Unlike other skills, learning a foreign language is all about practice. Apps like Bilingua are the best sources from which you can learn a new language. Get in touch with a native speaker, and keep on practising and perfecting your newly learnt skill. Besides that, apps like Bilingua also offer a number of plans and multimedia tools to enhance your reading, writing, listening and speaking skills.
3. Low cost
Let’s face it – learning languages through traditional methods is expensive. Online learning courses are cheaper than campus classes, or tutors, so you won’t burn a hole in your pocket.
4. Comfort and accessibility
Another major advantage of online language learning courses is getting rid of those long classes on campus. Online language learning gives you the comfort of learning a language at your own pace, in a familiar environment and whenever you have time. Several studies have proven that people are more receptive and creative when they are in a familiar environment. Also, each individual is most alert during different times in the day. Practising languages online gives you the supreme advantage of choosing your own time and place to learn the language.
5. Autonomous, flexible and self-paced
Online language learning courses let you learn the language on your own. This may cause a little discomfort to students who aren’t autonomous but on the bright side, it can teach you to challenge yourself and to grow. Apart from that, the flexible and self-paced programmes will ensure that you do not have to hurry through the lessons and can reach the target at your own time. Cramming is poisonous when it comes to language learning and hence, such courses let you take your own time to understand the lessons.
6. Repetition
Few people pick up a new language on the first attempt. Language learning is a difficult yet gratifying task which may ask you to repeat the lessons learnt. In a traditional classroom environment, repeating lessons on the spot will only add to the annoyance of the teacher and the student. This is not the case when you are practising languages online. These courses engage the student throughout the duration of the course and provide a comprehensive education.
7. Enrich your resume
Additional skills and being bilingual is definitely an added advantage to your resume. With many companies going international, the need for bilingual, and even multilingual employees is at an all-time high. Also, mentioning online learning courses in your resume will portray you as an avid learner and more knowledgeable.
However, practising languages online can come with its own set of disadvantages. Some of them are:
1. Getting the appropriate technology
Online learning courses require an extensive set-up. In order to benefit from such courses, the students need to have a computer and an internet connection. This becomes a hindrance for families who do not have enough money to afford the technological devices.
2. Lack of motivation
If self-motivation is not your forte, then maybe you should apply for traditional classes where the teacher and the peer pressure will encourage you to work hard. However, if you still wish to choose online language learning courses, be prepared to challenge yourself and plan accordingly to achieve the desired result.
Conclusion
Online language learning has never been easier. By using apps like Bilingua, you can practise languages online with a native speaker because languages are a part of the broader context. Online education does foster learning, but the best results are achieved when people get to practice with native speakers who can teach the nitty-gritty of the language.
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Foreign Language Learning: Avoid The 10 Common Mistakes
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Also published on Medium.
