Check out this answer from Consensus:
Language learning apps can indeed be effective tools for learning a new language, particularly in improving vocabulary and engaging learners. However, they are most beneficial when used as supplementary resources alongside traditional learning methods. The effectiveness of these apps can vary based on the learner’s proficiency and the specific features of the app. For optimal results, a combination of different apps tailored to the learner’s needs and goals is recommended.
The use of mobile applications for language learning has become increasingly popular, with many users turning to these tools to enhance their language skills. This synthesis examines the effectiveness of language learning apps based on multiple research studies.
Key Insights
- Positive Impact on Vocabulary and Engagement:
- User Perception and Satisfaction:
- Supplementary Role of Apps:
- Influence of Language Proficiency:
- The effectiveness and usage of language learning apps can vary based on the learner’s proficiency level. More advanced users may use apps differently compared to beginners5.
- Motivation and Autonomy:
- Technological and Pedagogical Alignment:
- There is a need for app designers to align 21st-century technology with modern learning theories to maximize the effectiveness of language learning apps1.
Can you really learn a language with an app?
Dan Isbell has answered Likely
An expert from University of Hawaii at Manoa in Linguistics
Yes, you can really learn a language with an app, but you should have reasonable expectations about the speed of learning and your ultimate level of attainment as a result of using apps alone. Apps are fairly good at teaching vocabulary and basic grammar structures, which are foundational to language skills. However, most apps are limited in how far they can take you, and at some point, you’ll need to go beyond apps to hone communicative skills and develop broader, richer knowledge of a language. But apps can be an effective and convenient way to get started with a language or maintain your current levels of knowledge.
Can you really learn a language with an app?
Edith Kaan has answered Uncertain
An expert from University of Florida in Language Studies
There is some evidence that students using only apps like Rosetta Stone and Duolingo perform at least as well on language tests as students in classroom settings. Especially learners using gamified apps like Duolingo say they enjoy learning more and are more motivated. However, there are some aspects of language that are harder to learn from apps, especially conversational skills and knowledge about the culture and history of the country where the language is spoken. It is therefore recommended that you also have a language conversation partner or other ways to practice the language outside of the app, or use the app in addition to classroom-based learning.
Can you really learn a language with an app?
Ayşenur Sağdıç has answered Likely
An expert from Georgetown University in Linguistics
To fully answer the question, it is necessary to operationalize what it means to “learn a language”. If we mean using the language in a manner similar to a person who speaks that language as their first language, perhaps that is unlikely, especially in a limited time period of app use. This is because language competence involves not just knowing the explicit and discrete rules of the target language but also the implicit rules, the pragmatics (language use in its social context). However, it is indeed possible to improve your language skills with an app or a technology-assisted language learning software platform. Of course, there are various factors that will ultimately affect the magnitude of the language learning gains. One of those factors is the app itself. There are many different language learning apps with varying features (e.g., use of VR, involving expert/native speakers in discussion forums, gamification elements) and instructional methods, or approaches to teaching the language. Some of the other variables involve the length and the frequency at which users engage with the app, motivation to learn the language, users’ age, and other moderating factors such as whether the app user receives any formal language instruction in addition to using the app or whether the user lives in an environment where the target language is spoken by the majority.
Ultimately, the affordances of language apps will only grow, so there is tremendous potential for second language acquisition researchers, learning scientists, and education technology experts to empirically research optimal and innovative ways to provide meaningful language education leveraging technology.
Can you really learn a language with an app?
Michael Thomas has answered Unlikely
An expert from Birkbeck, University of London in Psychology, Cognitive Science, Intelligence
Apps can help with the rote learning of vocabulary, some aspects of syntax, and with hearing the key sounds (phonology) in a language. But a lot of speaking a language is skill based, rather than knowledge based, which means practising its use in the appropriate (social) contexts. Apps can’t really replicate this aspect (maybe VR?), particularly the contingent / responsive / fluid feedback aspects. So apps can be useful tools but are unlikely to succeed as the sole method of learning a new language.
Can you really learn a language with an app?
Yousef Khalifa Aleghfeli has answered Uncertain
An expert from Oxford University in Education
It depends on the needs and circumstances of each individual. Learning environments must center around the needs and circumstances of each individual to ensure that they are learning at an optimal level. For example, those who do not have access to the internet are still able to learn languages as long as they are in a learning environment that is built around their individual needs and circumstances.