Language learning platforms come in all shapes and sizes and offer a variety of different options, however, knowing what to look for in a language platform will help you make the best decision.
“Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.” – Nelson Mandela
In our competitive society, training is the foundation for growth. The ability to manage different languages is an excellent tool that will allow you to expand your market and capitalize on opportunities. Multiplying your chances by making your way in the world with an effective online language school may seem like a simple idea, but there are a few things we need to consider.
Platform
Language learning platforms come in all shapes and sizes and offer a variety of different options, however, knowing what to look for in a language platform will help you make the best decision.
Self-paced learning platforms offer a great way for students to advance at their own rhythm, they offer flexibility as you can study and progress whenever you are free but require a lot of self-discipline from the learner.
Motivation is key factor, and online language schools incorporate gamification tools like badges and achievements into their courses to encourage learners to continue, this is a great tool as it pushes us to “level up”. There are also platforms that incorporate other tools, send you reminders or incorporate calendars into your study plan to keep you on track.
Apart from a specific curriculum, there are platforms that offer a variety of other activities to engage learners in their target language through the use of games, activities and articles to provide a more enriching online content.
Lots of platforms offer a “one size fits all” curriculum, which lacks personalization and may not focus on the individual needs of the learner. Find an option that fits your learning objectives as best as possible, some language centres even create material or courses according to your specific needs.
Technology
A student-centred approach is becoming more realistic with advances in technology, and as language learners we should embrace technology and adapt it to our needs. It may seem overwhelming and often scary how fast technology moves and what it can do, just look for something that has a great user interface, and that is quick and easy to learn.
The language solution you choose should be completely compatible with the technology you use on a daily basis. Having access to your course on the devices you use most frequently, be it a smartphone or a computer, makes the learning process a lot easier, this can be facilitated by the use of apps and fast loading websites.
The language solution you choose should be completely compatible with the technology you use on a daily basis. Having access to your course on the devices you use most frequently, be it a smartphone or a computer, makes the learning process a lot easier, this can be facilitated by the use of apps and fast loading websites.
There are some amazing ways technology is being implemented in online language learning courses, artificial intelligence is being used in numerous ways to create a learner centric experience such as correction tools, content recommendation or even interactive talking avatars. Learning environments are being created with virtual reality and augmented reality to bring the experience to life for the user.
Live classes
Apart from a comprehensive self-study programme, with top notch technology, having the option to put the knowledge you are learning online into practice in a group or individual situation with a qualified teacher who can provide you with precise feedback and guide you on the correct path to success in your language learning goals is key.
There are group options, where multiple students connect to discuss topics in enriching conversations. Online group lessons can give learners the opportunity to interact with people you might not have met before and a unique way of learning about different points of views.
One on one online classes offer the best flexibility and maximize your participation and the teacher’s attention. You have the greatest amount of time to talk, ask and answer questions and also delve into the topics that inspire you the most. And of course, individual online lessons give you the greatest flexibility.
When you choose online lessons, make sure you select an option that offers you the flexibility you need and also keeps you, as a learner, as the main focus. There are multiple options, try and find something that has a dynamic solution and maximizes your participation in class. With the use of technology and the platforms, language schools now make the live online sessions motivating and encouraging forums of discussion.
Eszett understands that being on the forefront of online language teaching means finding the right mix of attractive and practical programs, supported by state-of-the-art technological resources and outstanding classes. We pride ourselves on our strategic partnership with Babbel to offer self-paced courses, but we don’t stop there! With our Learning Content Management System, we are able to create brand new modules in our Virtual Classroom.
The student has been and will always be our main focus, so apart from providing flexible, personalized solutions through our Virtual Classroom, Eszett combines its self-paced courses with dynamic, interactive live language lessons, for a complete language learning solution.