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…
Hacking Pronunciation in Any Language with the IPA, Part 1: Consonants Posted by Transparent Language on Feb 2, 2015 in Archived Posts
Jakob Gibbons writes about language and travel on his blog Globalect. He often shares his experiences with learning languages on the road, and teaching and learning new speech sounds is his specialty. One of the biggest hurdles to jump in learning a new language is getting control of new speech sounds you’ve never made before…
Days of Deutsch: Learning a Language through Labeling Posted by Transparent Language on Jan 28, 2015 in Archived Posts
They say that when you learn a new language you should label your day to day objects, stick a post-it on the fridge, on the oven, on your shelves. Then every time you’re in the kitchen you’ll start to memorise everything around you. My labelling obsession has gone into overdrive. Not satisfied with post-it notes…