Best Online Language Learning Sites

Do you want to learn more languages, or do you simply want to improve your native language knowledge? Online language learning helps you in studying different languages in a virtual setting. Regardless of your skill-levels, you can surely get a good command of any language you want to learn with the best online language courses today.

If you want to learn about a specific language but don’t have the time to do so, then taking online language courses is suitable. Through virtual learning, you can study languages at your own pace during your most convenient time at any place. Aside from that, here are some more reasons that will make you want to enroll in the best online language course.

Accessible and Convenient Learning

One of the best things online language learning can offer is its convenience. You never have to worry about showing up in class on time since you can master these courses anytime and anywhere. Some courses can even be accessed through mobile apps, allowing you to learn while you travel.

Innovative Learning Methods

Since everything is done virtually, the best language courses online today incorporate innovative approaches so you can have better and brighter learning experiences. Some lessons don’t only use video lectures and tutorials—other providers utilize interactive tools and activities, like videos, games, quizzes, etc., that can help you learn effectively.

Learning Freedom

With online language learning, you have the freedom to choose what language you want to master. Plus, you experience less stress and pressure coming from other factors like your peers, which helps you learn at your own pace. This setting makes it suitable for you, especially if you’re busy because of work or other matters.

Cost-Effective Option

Unlike in a traditional learning setting, with online language learning, you don’t have to travel to attend classes anymore, which makes everything cheaper and cost-effective. Also, online courses are usually less expensive because there aren’t any overhead costs. Plus, what’s good about them is that courses often come in discounted packages.

Diverse Language Options

In-person classes usually offer limited language courses. But when you’re learning a language online, you’re exposed to tons of courses all over the internet. In case you’re not enjoying what you’re currently taking, you can simply finish that course then switch to a new one after. It’s also handy, especially if you want to learn several languages.

Repetitive Learning

Can’t understand a lesson in one go? Don’t worry! Most websites allow you to access your courses even when you’re through with it. This way, you can always return to your lessons whenever you want to review them.

Find More Job Opportunities

Mastering a language can expose you to tons of job opportunities—even more so if you’re multilingual. You can use your skills to your advantage to get your dream job, such as a teacher, translator, interpreter, etc. You can also establish a career abroad and use your skills to eliminate the language barrier between you and your future clients.

There are tons of language courses all over the internet, but looking for one can be challenging. To help you look for the best services online, take a look at this list of core features you need to consider.

Multiple Languages Offered

Some websites focus on learning a specific language only, while others offer several foreign language courses. Whether you want to learn German, Italian, or Arabic, the best institutions will indeed have it all ready for you. Sometimes they allow you to learn different languages at once, or sometimes, they personalize the courses into a specific path for you.

Qualified Instructors

Of course, you want to make sure that you’re learning from the right people. So it’s best to check whether these online language courses have qualified instructors. Some websites show their instructors’ credentials to prove to their students that they have the expertise needed for teaching.

Personal Feedback from Instructors

One of the best ways to learn something is by receiving direct feedback from your mentors. Luckily, most service providers have this feature available. That way, you can ask for assessments regarding your progress and different suggestions on how you can improve.

Video Lectures

Since you’re studying a foreign language online, one of the most effective ways to learn is through video lectures. That’s why service providers mostly offer lessons in this format. Sometimes, you can download to access them even when you’re offline. Plus, you can always go back to the videos whenever you misunderstood the topic.

Interactive Exercises

Sometimes, it’s best to learn a language by simply speaking it, so the best online language courses make sure that they have interactive exercises. Through these activities, you get to practice and hone your skills by speaking the language you’re trying to learn. That way, you’d learn efficiently and much more quickly.

1-on-1 Coaching Sessions

Other websites also believe that it’s much more effective to learn through 1-on-1 coaching sessions, so they also provide scheduled classes through calls with instructors. All you have to do is choose your preferred language, book an appointment, and learn.

Supplementary Study Tools

Are video lectures not enough for you? Then don’t worry! The best online language courses also provide downloadable supplementary content, such as written modules, flashcards, and exercises. That way, you can practice your skills even during your free time.

Self-Paced Learning

Most websites that offer online language courses know that some of their students are usually on-the-go. So, to make things easier for them, they also provide self-paced learning. Through self-paced learning, you don’t have to push yours

Mobile App or Web Access

If you’re quite the traveler, you’d want your courses to be available on your smartphones. That’s why these websites also have their websites mobile-ready. Some even have their mobile apps. Through this, you can learn your preferred language anytime and anywhere. All you need is an internet connection, or, better yet, download your course for offline access.

Customized Learning Path

As much as possible, you’d want your learning path to be personalized. That’s why the best online language learning courses offer a customized learning path for their students based on their skill level, availability to attend classes, budget, and many more factors.

Demo Lessons

Most probably, online foreign language learning websites would offer tons of courses. But what if you’re having a hard time choosing the program for you? Don’t fret, as the best websites would offer demo lessons for students who are unsure of their learning goals yet. Through this feature, you get a glimpse of the courses first before spending your money.

Affordable Fees

Of course, everybody would want their lessons to be affordable, especially if you’re planning to learn several languages. That’s why online language learning institutions have made sure that their fees are reasonable and affordable. They sometimes even offer courses in bundles and packages. Plus, they offer discounts, especially to students with buddies they want to learn with.

Students’ Network

Virtual learning can sometimes feel lonely. Unlike in a traditional classroom, you get to interact with friends while attending classes. But don’t worry as these websites have platforms, such as forums and communities, where students can communicate. That way, everyone can enjoy their learning experience and lessen the stress that comes with it.

Choosing from a pool of online foreign language courses can be challenging, as well as selecting the type of program you’d want to enroll yourself in. There are tons of options available all over the internet today on how you’d master a language. Let’s take a look at them one-by-one.

Self-Study Language Learning Courses

Suppose you want to learn a language at your own pace, this type of course most suits you. As the name implies, self-learning courses let you study a language all on your own without an instructor’s help. They usually come in video lectures that you can simply pay for, download on any of your devices, and watch.

One-on-One Instructor-Led Language Learning

If you want the supervision of an instructor, a one-on-one language learning program is preferable. This setting is similar to being tutored at home, except it’s done virtually online. This type of learning can come in a pay-per-lesson arrangement, or you can choose to be trained and supervised throughout your learning path.

Group Instructor-Led Online Language Learning

Do you want to learn with some of your buddies, or do you want to interact with fellow students worldwide? Group online language learning is similar to attending a traditional class in a virtual setting. Besides that, it offers the most interactive language courses online because of the students’ presence in a session.

Hybrid Language Learning

Some websites combine online classes with face-to-face learning since they believe it’s one of the most effective learning methods. This program combines almost every type that was previously mentioned—you can have classes in a traditional classroom, virtual lessons with your instructor, as well as self-study learning activities and exercises.

Language Learning Through Mobile Apps

Learning a language through mobile apps is also a form of self-study, except that learning is done through an app, and it’s mostly interactive. Most of these language learning mobile apps teach you a language through games, flashcards, slide shows, etc. Plus, what’s best about them is that sometimes they offer free access, however, with limited features.

Hobbyists

If you love learning new things and need a new hobby to pass your time while you’re home, try online language learning. It’s a fun way to spend your free hours, and you get to interact with students worldwide should you choose to enroll in a group class. Plus, maybe you can watch your favorite foreign movies and series without having to turn on the subtitles, right?

Non-English Speakers

English is probably the most common course available across any language learning platform since it’s currently the most accepted universal language worldwide. If you don’t have a good command of the language, you can enroll yourself in an online English learning course. This way, you can hone your skills so you can communicate with foreigners comfortably.

Business People

Business people often have to communicate with potential partners and clients worldwide. Speaking the native language of the people they're dealing with gives them an edge, increasing their chances to close a deal. Through online language learning, they can master the languages they need to know. Plus, they can squeeze in their lessons between their busy schedules.

World Leaders

World leaders need to be aware of the different cultures worldwide, and one of the best ways to do that is through language learning. These courses also let them learn how to speak of other languages globally, helping them communicate with different cultures.

Individuals Who Are Planning to Migrate

If you’re planning to migrate to a country that speaks a different language, it’s best to learn their tongue soon. Through online language learning, you can master the language you’re aiming for during your most convenient time at your own pace. Plus, aside from learning how to speak it, you also get to familiarize yourself with the culture of the country you’re migrating to.

Kids and Teens

Kids and teens can be nurtured with language learning too! Try using language learning mobile apps on your kids, so they can study while they have fun. On the other hand, your teens may need to explore their hobbies and interests in preparation for their careers. Enrolling them in an online language course can help them identify what they want to establish for their future.

Elderly People

Who said it’s too late for the elderly to learn something new? These people need frequent thinking exercises to keep their brain healthy and young, and mastering a new language can be the exercise they need. Plus, it’s best if they can study at the comfort of their homes, that’s why online language learning suits them best.

Frequent Travelers

Traveling is fun and all, but learning the language of the country you’re going to makes everything better! Enrolling yourself in a language learning course helps you prep your vocabulary for your trip. This way, you can make the most out of your memorable vacation abroad.

Employees in the Hospitality and Tourism Industry

Employees in the hospitality and tourism industry often accommodate people of different nationalities. If you’re one of them, speaking the native language of your customers can make your life a tad bit easier. Foreign language learning helps you master your customers’ languages, helping you better your services for them.

Aspiring Interpreters, Translators, and Language Teachers

If you wish to be an interpreter, translator, or a language teacher, learning through online means is one of the easiest ways to do so. Some service providers offer courses that are dedicated to helping people develop skills for language-related jobs. Plus, they offer instructions regarding licensing and certification that you simply have to follow to help you achieve your dream.

Step 1 : Choose the language you want to learn and assess your capabilities.

First, choose the language you want to learn. Consider its difficulty, as well as your capability to commit to learning. Also, make sure that you’re motivated enough to study that specific language since it plays an essential role in finishing the course.

Step 2 : Consider the type of course for you.

Next, choose the type of course you want to enroll yourself in based on your self-assessment. For instance, if you need to learn at your own pace, consider taking self-study courses instead. Or, if you think you can commit to consistently attending classes with peers, then take a group online language course.

Step 3 : Check and compare language learning websites and apps.

Check and compare the different service providers you’re eyeing for. You can check out some reviews on the best online language courses, too, so you can get some insights from other students before enrolling yourself. Also, make sure that you’re choosing a legitimate website as well.

Step 4 : Select and enroll in your chosen course.

Then, enroll yourself in your chosen course. Provide the necessary details being asked by the website, such as your personal information, payment details, and schedule on when you’re going to start. Make sure to double-check the details before confirming so as not to encounter any issues.

Step 5 : Start learning and practice consistently.

Now, you’re finally enrolled in a course! Make sure that you’re attending scheduled classes on time. If you choose self-study learning or a language learning mobile app, make sure that you’re dedicating at least an hour or two to learning every day to make the most out of your language learning experience.

Some people can learn in weeks, while others take months. There is no definite time that can indicate how fast an individual can learn a language. Your learning pace depends on several factors, such as your dedication to master it, the difficulty of the language itself, the amount of time you allot to studying, and many more.

The duration of the language class depends on the terms provided by your service provider’s plans. However, usually, each instructor-led session lasts for about an hour or two.

Knowing the basics of the language you want to learn can significantly help you with your lessons. But no, it isn’t necessary. You can take any language course you want regardless of your skill level.

Yes, some service providers know how crucial and significant it is to have a native speaker as an instructor. Therefore, they ensure that they hire native speakers to render the best language learning services as much as possible.

The most popular languages are Mandarin Chinese, Spanish, German, French, Arabic, Russian, Portuguese, Japanese, Hindi, Italian, English, and Korean. These languages are considered useful to learn since many people currently speak them. Plus, mastering them helps you open more job opportunities for you worldwide.

Yes, you may receive a certificate of completion, but it depends on the course you’ve taken and your service provider. Most free online language courses and paid short courses don’t issue certificates. Read the terms of your program before enrolling should you need a certificate for academic or career purposes.

Yes, you can take these online courses for high school credits, provided that they are accepted in your curriculum. Note that you have to make sure that the service provider offers accredited online high school foreign language courses.

Yes, you can also take online language courses for college credit. However, opting for online learning can be much more challenging than in-person classes for college credit. Consider your capabilities first before choosing this option. Also, you have to make sure that the service provider you select is accredited before enrolling.

Yes, there are tons of free courses available online. However, despite their claims of being the best free online language course provider, their lessons are usually limited. Plus, they often don’t issue certificates, which is crucial, especially if you aim to earn college or high school credits.

Yes, there are also online college language courses available today. Some of these institutions also offer hybrid courses, fit for working students who still wish to attend in-person classes despite their busy schedules.

To make sure that you’re learning the language efficiently, here are some tips on how you can practice your speaking skills.

Start with the basics first. You don’t have to jump to the most advanced courses immediately. Knowing the fundamentals by heart helps you learn the language even without the help of an instructor.

Dedicate a portion of your time every day. Being committed to learning is crucial when learning a language. Make sure to dedicate at least 15 minutes to practice—it’ll go a long way.

Read and speak aloud. It’s essential to read and speak aloud the language you’re trying to learn to master its phonetics and dictation. Try speaking in front of a mirror as well to see your lip movements as you talk.

Communicate with other people. If you have a tutor with you or have a classmate you’re learning with, try communicating with each other in the language you’re studying. Give each other some constructive criticisms to help you point out the areas you think you have to improve.

Use your resources. Browse the internet and try reading through different articles and books translated into the language you’re learning. Try watching movies too, and study how the actors and actresses speak it.

Yes, there are online sign language courses as well. The American Sign Language refers to the visual-gestural language widely used by the deaf in the US and other parts of Canada. Like any different language, it also has its own grammar rules.

Similar to other online language programs, accredited online courses for the American Sign Language can also be taken for college credit.