Language Learning Apps that AREN’T Duolingo: Create the Ultimate Language Learning Lab

Anyone who loves languages knows (and loves) Duolingo and Google Translate- they are great language learning apps. While they are both super useful and definitely popular (Duolingo has more than 100 million users alone), you’ll need further practice to bring your language skills to real fluency. 

Language labs are an essential component to building skills in any language. In the lab, we experiment, take risks and build skills. Your language lab might be time spent abroad, immersed in the target language. Your language lab might look a lot like the more traditional academic language labs with headphones, devices and exercises. 

The internet has completely transformed our ability to connect with language and culture all over the world. Smartphones have now made it possible to have all of this anywhere, and right in the palm of your hand. Check out these 7 surprising language learning apps that transform your phone into the ultimate language lab that aren’t Duolingo:

Audible

While practicing your productive skills (speaking and writing) is a critical part of developing fluency, we first learn through what we understand. Audible has great courses for beginners in numerous languages. Once you are looking to get to that advanced, or even near native-level, get a subscription and immerse yourself in novels and self-help books in your target language. Listen and learn vocabulary, advanced grammar and structures (all in context) while you walk, do errands or accomplish other goals in your life.

iBooks

The iBooks store offers users the option of purchasing ebooks, in addition to purchasing audiobooks. The iBooks phone app-or your phone’s OS equivalent or personal preference-allows easy access to ebooks and PDFs in the target language. Again, what we read and what we hear is where we first learn new language. Get free material for iBooks from places like Project Gutenberg.

Clock

Time spent engaged in language is one of the biggest factors in attaining and building fluency. We already know that we can soak up as much language as we want, wherever we want with audio books and ereaders. Speaking and writing give us that all-important test. Can you say what you want to say? If not, go back and work on it. Set the timer and practice your new language with friends, groups, teachers or even yourself. Absolute beginner? Start timing yourself reading dialogues and vocabulary or studying. Increase your time periods regularly. Your skills will start to grow exponentially.

Voice Memos

Document the rapid progress towards fluency you are making by timing your sessions practicing speech by recording them with the unconventional language learning app-Voice Memos (or your OS equivalent). Start with short sessions (even two or three minutes each day), and increase regularly. Each month, listen to a recording from the month prior and be astonished at how far you have come.

FaceTime

Talk to native speakers from all over the world and meet your goals in record time on Italki.