Technology is undeniably valuable for language learning. Countries are opening up to the potential benefits of using this new tech for foreign language teaching. France and Spain, for example, have now implemented new technologies for language learning, with one being e-learning and the other being a second or even third language learning. China also recently decided to use a combination of cutting-edge technology as well as hands-on teaching techniques
Benefits of Using Technology in Foreign Language Learning
There are many benefits of using technology in foreign language learning. For example, it’s much easier to speak in the target language when listening to others because you can see your pronunciation and the different nuanced sounds that a language offers compared to a second language where the pronunciation is not an option.
Technology is liberating. It is a collection of tools that helps us study language in a way that we never could previously. Technology has allowed us to better implement our learning goals and find the perfect teacher on the click of a button. Whether you’re a history buff or someone simply wanting to learn Spanish, knowing how technology can make your life easier with Spanish online classes will help with content as well as enjoyment.
Technology like apps, games, audio books, e-books and websites can be used to enhance language learning. It’s a great way to practice in different contexts without limitations imposed by the classroom. With apps, you can choose content, progress through levels and set reminders for self-study. Games take learning out of the classroom and offer engaging live interactions with native speakers as well as brain training exercises designed to help speed up language acquisition.
Picking the right technology can be difficult. Social media, especially, is a blessing and a curse because of how it can provide new ways to learn and improve. However, using technology to improve your language proficiency must balance what’s good and bad about the tools you are using.
Tech-Based Tools That Can Be Used for Foreign Language Learning
One tool for specific language learning is video recordings. Video recordings are a way to listen and view content at one time. Watching videos can help learners to learn and hear the numbers, vocabulary, words, phrases and uses of those words better. While there aren’t any strong studies showing that audio listening exercises are superior to video viewing exercises in terms of learning, many people do prefer a mix of explicit and implicit learning styles so audio listening exercises serve as a bridge for learners in need of all three types of emphasis.
For example, a conversation starter that would go as follows: “I’m sorry for interrupting you. Do you speak Spanish?” and then another possible answer like “No, no hablo”. A listener could hear these on the clip sound file and try to figure out which one is spoken in Spanish instead of English.
Audio listening exercises have been proven to benefit language learning, but many people struggle to find the time for these types of assignments. Furthermore, learners cannot always identify words correctly on their own like they can with written grammar. However, you can still find opportunities for your learners to practice vocabulary through sound files instead of having them read and try to contribute by either singing back or typing keywords.
It’s important to have a variety of ways to practice your listening skills and get familiar with the language that you plan on learning, but for learners who don’t speak the same language that you do, there are two other great options for practicing listening: audio exchanges and speaking practice.
Audio listening exercises can be a great practice for learners who are trying to develop their skills in learning or language listening. If you’re not sure how to do these exercises, practicing them is an important way to get the skills that you need. There are a number of ways that audio can be practiced making the process more manageable for beginners looking for a new skill.
Online vocabulary-building exercises are the most effective way for language learners to memorize words and new grammar rules. Vocabulary building exercises don’t need words or vocabulary to be written down, so they can be easily done on a mobile phone and there is no pressure from a teacher.