Archive for 'Archived Posts'
You can’t learn a language “naturally” with software Posted by Evan Quinlan on Mar 4, 2013 in Archived Posts
If I want to learn a second language, can I turn to my computer? One would hope so, since I make such products for a living. And the answer is yes… but it’s a qualified yes. I can’t learn another language the way I learned my native language without moving to another country or investing…
Proper Study Has Its Own Rewards Posted by Sean Young on Feb 25, 2013 in Archived Posts
Have you ever watched people selecting fruit? Most look at its color and size. Some people smell the fruit, touch it, or even squeeze it. Still others weigh it, putting one piece in each hand to detect which is heavier with juice. What do you think they are doing? They are analyzing details, evaluating the…
Why Learn a Language if Machines Translate for You? Posted by kristen on Feb 11, 2013 in Archived Posts
Computers already facilitate communication, but will they someday allow real-time conversations between speakers of different languages? The Economist believes they might. In an article about machine translation, the author speculates that we may see computers doing this “Star Trek” kind of work someday soon. Still, this is a difficult feat for machines. They struggle with…
Top 10 Reasons to Learn a Language Posted by Lorien on Feb 6, 2013 in Archived Posts
There are actually a lot of really good reasons to learn a foreign language besides “it’s a school requirement.” Let’s explore some of the key benefits to learning another language. We’d love to hear your reasons in the comments. 1. Good for the Brain “Training your brain” is all the rage these days, and there are lots of…
I’m Not Ready! Posted by Sean Young on Jan 16, 2013 in Archived Posts
I was visiting my parents over the winter break, and my 80-year-old mother is learning Spanish. She is doing a very impressive job. In just a few months of study, she is reading and understanding a Spanish book written for children ages 7-8 years old. She’s not a fast reader yet, and she asks for…
Create your own language learning toolbox Posted by Lorien on Jan 14, 2013 in Archived Posts
For most of us, learning a foreign or second language is an exciting concept. We picture ourselves as more culturally aware and enriched, able to better communicate with our global family. At the same time, it’s an intimidating prospect and a major commitment of time and effort. It’s attainable though, and we’re going to help…
Tech News: Student Success at San Diego State Posted by kristen on Jan 3, 2013 in Archived Posts
Technology offers the potential to revolutionize the way that we teach and learn. Mobile apps, in particular, are making their mark on this generation of language learners, since apps allow learners to study on the go and use small chunks of time productively. The Language Acquisition Resource Center, (LARC,) at San Diego State University has…