by Laura Dobos
Having the ability to speak in more than one language has rapidly become a skill that is very appealing to many employers and in many disciplines. In education, having the ability to speak and teach French almost guarantees an LTO, immediately after an individual completes their bachelor of education. Being that Canada is a bilingual country, education is always going to require French teachers. Learning another language is something that I wish I had done growing up, and if I had the same technologies at my disposal, that today’s student does, maybe I would have been more motivated to learn it.
Duolingo is an app that helps the user learn another language. There are a large number of languages that can be taught, including French and Spanish. Once downloaded, you can choose which language you want to learn, and the app takes you through the steps to set up your account. You first have to choose your goal – how long do you want to practice your language each day? You can do 5 minutes, 10 minutes, 15 minutes or 20 minutes. The goal can be changed later! Once you choose, the app gauges your ability in that language. You can either start as a beginner or you can do an aptitude test to ensure you are placed in the right stream. The test adapts to your level, by getting easier or harder depending on how you are doing.
Duolingo allows you the flexibility of learning at a time that works for you, and it does a great job of making you go over vocabulary, punctuation and word placement throughout each lesson.
If you’re looking to learn another language, and want to do it on your own time, at your own pace, Duilingo is definitely an app for you!!
Duolingo is free on the Apple Store.
