Choosing between language learning apps and classes? Here’s the quick answer:

• Apps are great for flexibility, affordability, and self-paced learning. Perfect for beginners and busy schedules.
• Classes excel at real-time feedback, cultural insights, and advanced conversational skills. Ideal for structured learners.

Quick Overview:

• Apps: Affordable, flexible, gamified lessons, and good for A1-B2 levels.
• Classes: Higher cost, fixed schedules, live feedback, and better for advanced fluency.

Takeaway: Your choice depends on your goals, budget, and learning style. Or, combine both for the best of both worlds!

Should you self-study a language or take classes?

1. Mobile Learning Apps

Mobile apps make language learning more accessible and engaging than ever.

Price and Accessibility

Most mobile learning apps use a freemium model. This means you get access to basic lessons for free, while advanced content often requires a subscription or one-time payment.

Study Format

These apps are designed for busy people. They offer short, structured lessons that are easy to fit into your day. Many also use gamification techniques - like points, levels, and streaks - to keep you motivated and coming back for more. This structure helps learners make steady progress.

Results and Progress Tracking

A 2020 study found that users learning Spanish and French through mobile apps achieved reading and listening skills comparable to four semesters of university-level study - and they did it in half the time.

Schedule Flexibility

Mobile learning apps are available anytime, making it easy to fit learning into your routine. For example, you can:

• Learn during your commute, turning downtime into productive study sessions.
• Take quick lessons during lunch breaks.
• Study at your own pace, with the option to revisit lessons whenever you need a refresher.

Proficiency Levels

While apps are highly effective for beginners and intermediate learners (often reaching CEFR Level B1 or B2), they may not be enough for advanced proficiency (C1 or C2). At that stage, incorporating methods like conversation practice with native speakers becomes essential.

2. Classroom Learning

Traditional classrooms offer a structured and interactive way to learn, providing benefits that mobile apps often can't match. For many serious learners, the depth and engagement of in-person or live online classes are key advantages.

Price and Accessibility

In-person private lessons are typically the most expensive option. Here’s a breakdown of costs and recommended weekly hours:

For those committed to fluency, expect to spend $400–$800 monthly with at least four hours of classes per week. However, these classes often come with fixed schedules and require term-based enrollment, which may limit flexibility.

Study Format

Classroom learning is built around expert-designed curricula and live feedback from instructors. This setup ensures a systematic approach to mastering the language.

In a classroom setting, learners benefit from:

• Real-time pronunciation corrections
• Group discussions on cultural nuances
• Hands-on activities and group exercises
• Clear explanations of grammar rules
• Practice opportunities with peers

"Interacting with a knowledgeable instructor can address specific questions and challenges, fostering a deeper understanding of the language." - Lingo Language School

This structured environment supports steady and measurable progress.

Results and Progress

Classroom-based learning is ideal for those who thrive in a structured setting. It offers:

• Comprehensive coverage of grammar
• Opportunities to dive into cultural aspects of the language
• Regular progress assessments
• Direct feedback from instructors
• Development of practical conversational skills

Schedule Options

Unlike mobile apps, classroom learning requires a set schedule. While this structure supports consistency, it can be a challenge for students with irregular work hours or frequent travel.

sbb-itb-ee588b4

Key Differences

Choosing between language learning apps and traditional classes can significantly impact your learning journey. Let’s break down the key differences.

Cost and Value Proposition

Language learning apps tend to be more budget-friendly, often relying on subscription models. Traditional classes, on the other hand, come with higher costs, typically charged per session or term. Here’s a quick comparison:

Now, let’s dive into how these options differ in their overall learning experience.

Learning Experience and Methodology

Traditional classes shine when it comes to real-time interaction. Instructors can correct your pronunciation, explain cultural nuances, and provide personalized feedback on tricky grammar. Meanwhile, language learning apps focus on interactive exercises, offering instant feedback and the ability to progress at your own pace.

Flexibility vs. Structure

Apps let you learn whenever and wherever you want, offering unmatched convenience. However, this flexibility can sometimes lead to inconsistent practice. Traditional classes, with their fixed schedules and structured lessons, ensure regular progress and are particularly effective for practicing live conversations with native speakers.

Personalization and Progress Tracking

Both options offer tailored learning, but they go about it differently. Apps rely on algorithms to recommend lessons and track progress using points or scores. Traditional classes, however, provide a human touch, with instructors customizing lessons based on your needs and offering detailed evaluations.

Each method caters to different learning preferences and goals, so the right choice depends on what works best for you.

Making Your Choice

Choose the language learning method that fits your needs and goals.

Consider Your Learning Style

If you like to study at your own pace, language apps might be a great option. They’re especially helpful for:

• Building basic vocabulary
• Practicing pronunciation
• Keeping up with daily practice
• Fitting learning into a busy schedule

On the other hand, if you thrive with structured lessons and real-time feedback, traditional classes offer:

• Immediate corrections for pronunciation and grammar
• Insights into cultural context and nuances
• Development of a full range of language skills
• Accountability through regular schedules

"If you teach people explicitly to memorize vocabulary and grammar rules, most people will learn that. But it's much harder to take that knowledge and translate it into the ability to use language - to speak it, understand what you're hearing, and respond in an appropriate way." - Loewen 2020

Your choice depends on what works best for you - or you can combine both methods to get the benefits of each.

The Hybrid Approach

Using both methods together can create a balanced learning experience. Here are a few examples:

"A combination of solutions that makes the best of both worlds available to learners ensures that professionals learn the language they need while getting realistic and significant practice." - The English Farm

Making It Work

Use these strategies to create a learning plan that fits your needs. Research shows that teacher guidance is often preferred for mastering advanced language skills. Traditional classes provide the human connection needed to build fluency and confidence.

FAQs

What’s the best way to combine language learning apps and traditional classes for better results?

To get the most out of your language learning journey, try combining language learning apps with traditional classes. Apps are great for building vocabulary, practicing pronunciation, and fitting quick lessons into a busy schedule. On the other hand, traditional classes offer structured lessons, real-time interaction with instructors and peers, and a deeper dive into grammar and cultural nuances.

By using both approaches, you can balance the flexibility of apps with the comprehensive learning experience of classes. For example, use apps to practice daily and reinforce what you learn in class, or bring questions from your app exercises to your teacher for clarification. This combination ensures a more well-rounded and effective learning experience tailored to your personal goals.

What are the benefits of using language learning apps for beginners compared to traditional classes?

Language learning apps offer several key advantages for beginners. They provide a flexible and affordable way to start learning, allowing users to practice anytime and anywhere. Apps are designed for short, consistent practice sessions, which can help build vocabulary, improve listening skills, and reinforce reading comprehension over time.

Many apps use gamification and interactive features to make learning fun and engaging, helping users stay motivated. Additionally, they are accessible across various devices, giving learners the freedom to study on their own schedule. For beginners, this convenience and adaptability can be especially helpful in establishing a strong foundation in a new language.

How do traditional language classes compare to apps for achieving advanced proficiency?

Traditional language classes are essential for reaching advanced proficiency because they offer personalized instruction and real-time interaction that apps often cannot provide. A skilled teacher can identify your specific challenges, give tailored feedback, and guide you through complex language nuances.

Additionally, classes create opportunities for spontaneous conversations and cultural insights, which are critical for mastering fluency and real-world communication. While apps can be a helpful starting point, traditional classes provide the structure and depth needed to excel at higher levels of language learning.

Related posts

• How to Master English Pronunciation: Step-by-Step Guide