Archive for February, 2015
How to Teach Grammar Through Technology [Webinar] Posted by Transparent Language on Feb 25, 2015 in For Educators
At Transparent Language, we don’t just support learners of a foreign language, we support teachers, too! That’s why we started our Education Webinar series earlier this year. We’ve received so much positive feedback from attendees—and requests from educators unable to attend—that we’re repeating the series in early 2015! Up next: how to teach grammar through…
A Flurry of Snow Day Language Thoughts Posted by Transparent Language on Feb 23, 2015 in Archived Posts
You’ve probably heard the old claim that “Eskimos have dozens (or hundreds) of words for snow”… it was on my mind this morning as I looked out at the white stuff threatening to bury my driveway. Never having studied Inuit, Yupik, or any other Native Alaskan language, I’m not going to wade into that particular…
Transforming the Economics of Language Learning (Part 3) Posted by Transparent Language on Feb 18, 2015 in Archived Posts
In Part 2 we discussed how technology can transform the economics of language learning, but only if it’s the right technology. Now, let’s look at implementing the right technology in the right way. You’ve seen those clickbait web ads for “One Silly Trick…” to lose weight, relieve pain or whatever. There’s not usually much value after the…
Singing the Tongue-Song: Accents and Cadence Posted by Malachi Rempen on Feb 16, 2015 in Archived Posts
I wonder sometimes whether skill with accents can be learned or if it’s just innate—you have it or you don’t, like the ability to keep a beat. If I were to guess, I’d say it has to do with a totally different part of the brain than grammar or vocabulary. Maybe the same part of…
Is Teaching English Abroad Right for You? A List of Pros and Cons Posted by Transparent Language on Feb 11, 2015 in Archived Posts
It’s something that has crossed the mind of every language lover: what if you quit your day job, packed your bags, and spent a year (or two) teaching English abroad? Indeed, the notion is a romantic one: in addition to satisfying your wanderlust, working abroad allows you to connect with an entirely new culture, and…
Falling off the Horse Posted by bnelson on Feb 9, 2015 in Archived Posts
As of right now, my 2015 could use a complete reset. Anyone remember playing Atari? I was the ‘reset’ master of Atari. I wanted the perfect game. Unfortunately, no such button exists in the real world. Let me explain how this year, begun with such high expectations turned into one huge failure in execution. Last…
Transforming the Economics of Language Learning (Part 2) Posted by Transparent Language on Feb 4, 2015 in Archived Posts, Company News
Software that delivers just one course in a language is virtually useless for professional purposes. It’s like a delivery van that can only go to one address. In Part 1, we talked about how combining technology with human instruction can transform the economics and logistics of professional language training and maintenance. But it needs to…