How to Make the Most of Quarantine With a Language Learning App

Why learn a new language now?

Besides looking cool, learning a new language comes with many benefits in addition to helping you kill time until the pandemic’s over. Traveling is one of the main motivations for picking up a new language, and it’s easy to understand why: tourists speaking the country’s native language can blend better with the locals. Not only will natives share more about their lives, but they’ll be more likely to offer lower prices for their goods. Although the current state of traveling isn’t ideal, you can start learning the language of the country you’re going to visit and be ready to go the moment the quarantine period ends.

Another motivation to learn a new language is the possibility of climbing up a few steps on your career ladder. More than ever, knowing more than one language is vital for anyone looking for a promotion or a better job. Most companies have an international presence, so having multiple languages under your belt is a valued asset to have on your resume. Lastly, learning a new language also improves mental health down the line. It reduces age-related cognitive diseases such as Alzheimer’s by improving memory and attention span. Here’s how to make the most of the quarantine and spend your time effectively learning a new language.

Three ways to learn a new language without leaving the house

Language learning apps

Language learning software is of course an excellent and affordable option. There are multiple language-learning apps out there, each applying its own learning methods. There isn’t one that works best in general, but depending on how you learn the fastest, there will undoubtedly be one that works best for you. This type of software is usually subscription-based and offers a few days or lessons to try for free. It’s possible to get a monthly plan for now, and if the coronavirus issue is resolved in under a month, you could get a full refund if the company offers a 30-day money-back guarantee.

Freelance private teachers

Another option is to get a private teacher and attend lessons through video chatting. As in the U.S., many countries are facing a lockdown where most of its population is confined to their homes. Consequently, native speakers are also trying to make the most of their quarantine, and teaching their language online is a nice and profitable way to spend their time. Although this method is a little bit pricier – you usually have to pay an hourly rate – lessons are more geared toward your specific needs, and you’ll be able to add some human contact to your day. There are various freelance websites out there, so you’ll surely be able to find one offering the best rates.

Group calls

Who says you need to be inside a classroom to attend a language class with other people? Many teachers take advantage of web conferencing software to offer group classes on top of their one-to-one sessions. While this makes it cheaper for the students attending, it can still be more profitable for the teacher. And though lessons are not as personalized as private sessions, online classes still offer the perk of being able to ask real-time questions – something language-learning apps can’t provide. Moreover, they provide the opportunity to meet people and make some new friends.

With so many different options for learning a new language from the comfort of your own home, this quarantine period is without a doubt an excellent opportunity to become a little more worldly.