Learning a new language is as daunting as trying to fold a fitted sheet – seriously it can be frustrating.
And then LanguaTalk bursts into the AI-powered language learning scene in 2021 and it has made strides towards making language learning as easy as you would want it to be. Here is one thing we note about LanguaTalk. Unlike other sites that accept anyone who applies, LanguaTalks’s founders spend hours vetting potential tutors and reviewing their applications. You expect the best, you get the best with LanguaTalk.
There are many language learning apps, many of which make it seem like taking a language course like a grueling boot camp. LanguaTalk is different. It is like having a friendly chat with a neighbor. In any case, if you are yet to be convinced, stay with us. We are going to show you why LanguaTalk is a cut above the rest, why you should consider taking a language course from the app, and why you stand to gain.
Now, fasten your seatbelt, seat back, and let us take you on an informative drive about LanguaTalk.
How Does LanguaTalk Work?
LanguaTalk is a language learning startup that aims to connect tutors and learners.
Tutors apply for a tutoring role with the app. One, potential tutors have to have some teaching experience. Two, they need to be native speakers of the language they want to teach. Finally, they need to give a stellar interview. Only a few get to become tutors, but these few are the best of the best.
Now for the learners. Of course, you need to download and create an account with LanguaTalk. We assume that by the time you get an app, you have already chosen a language. You now need to pick a tutor. Each tutor creates a video introduction and a promo video. You may need to look at these before making a decision, which will not be easy as all the tutors seem terrific.
All the trials are 30 minutes long and you can select videos from as many tutors as you like. After sign-up, you get one complimentary free trial and afterward, you only pay 70%of the total cost for each video. And that is the first step you will have to take to get yourself a tutor. When you find your preferred tutor, you can discuss your price with them.
Now that you have a good idea of how you go about setting up your account, we can now look at the features of LanguaTalk.
Key Features of LanguaTalk
Every language-learning app has something that makes it special. LanguaTalk has several.
- LanguaTalk is the language learning hub. You get access to excellent teachers who will offer personalized lessons catered to your needs. But you also get access to Langua, the AI chatbot created to engage you in conversation. So, you get to learn both ways – traditional tutoring and AI assistance.
- Tutors are selected on experience and not willingness. A great way the app assures you of quality education.
- While most apps are free or cheaper, LanguaTalk will allow you to define rates with your tutor.
- Immense collection of learning materials. You of course will have the tutor to teach you the finer points of language, but you also get access to great materials to make your journey easier.
- The easy-to-use interface welcomes everyone- beginner or intermediate. It is definitely not like going into an advanced programming class.
- With Langua, the AI chatbot, you get to enjoy engaging conversations in your target language.
- You get instant translation when you get stuck and have to use your own language.
Do you now see how well-structured LanguaTalk is? You probably need to know more, so we are going to explore LanguaTalk’s strengths and limitations.
Strengths of LanguaTalk
- No frills website – when you first get into the website, you don’t get fancy and complicated designs, no chaotic marketing videos, just an instruction to book your first lesson. It is simplicity served straight up.
- Tutors set their own charges. So, you can filter and find whoever fits in with your budget. It is also advantageous that the site charges the tutors very little commission which helps to keep the costs low.
- The website is all about connecting tutors and students with as little hassle and more benefits to both sides.
- You can change tutors if you need to, and the process is easy
- The lessons are crafted just for you. So, you won’t need to go through content that’s too easy or too difficult for you.
Limitations of LanguaTalk
- If you are looking for just an app, gamified features, or vocabulary practice, LanguaTalk is not for you.
- There are no pre-recorded lessons, you just have to show up to class, albeit at times you have agreed on with your tutor and can access them from anywhere.
There you have it; you can now see exactly what you get with LanguaTalk. Do you still need more convincing? Well, follow us to the next section where we talk pricing.
LanguaTalk Plus or Free Version?
Well, because this is not a fully AI-powered app, rather it is a connection for tutors and students, you don’t really get a free version. Upon signing up you will get one 30-minute session to vet a tutor, and that’s it. You may have to pay a discounted rate for further vetting.
Afterward, you will get your rate from the tutor you pick. This rate is more than fair for all you will be getting from your tutor.
However, the site features an AI-powered AI chatbot for your speaking practice. You will have access to vocabulary practice with flashcards and preselected content to help you practice what you learn.
If you subscribe to a Langua Pro account, you get to have in-depth conversations with the chatbot.
Tips For Maximizing LanguaTalk
You probably have already signed up for an account on LanguaTalk. Maybe you already have a tutor. But your investment may go down the drain without a few tips for success.
- Consistently show up for your lesson – you have the freedom to set hours with your tutor. So, you don’t want anything to stop you from getting to class.
- Active learning – take notes, listen attentively, and ask questions. Take up the challenge and have a conversation with Langua.
- Constant practice – It is easy to forget concepts you have learned if you don’t practice them. You are learning a whole new language, so take advantage and engage with other speakers to better learn the language.
- Talk to your instructor – your tutor is not just there to teach you grammar. They are native speakers. They understand better how the language is used in real life. Plus, whenever you feel like you are struggling, your tutor can be an excellent support system.
And there you have it; you now have ways of ensuring you succeed. You are free to create your own plans or come up with your own tips and watch as your hard work results in fluency.
Comparison With Other Apps
– Duolingo
Perhaps one of the most popular apps, Duolingo is a contender for language learning apps. With Duolingo, you get to learn common words, and phrases, and pick up accents. It is a great app for beginners. One of the downsides is Duolingo does not have conversational AI. You may not be able to practice conversation with Duolingo.
– TalkPal
TalkPal is another language learning site you can use. It is not as powerful as comprehensive s]as LanguaTalk, but it does feature a great conversational chatbot for practice. The app also has an interesting pronunciation tool that helps you with your pronunciation – with a new language, your first accent may affect how you pronounce words in the language you are learning. However, the chatbot has a very robotic voice which can be distracting. The AI also seems not very developed, as there will be cases of the AI giving you points for incorrect responses which does not help you learn.
Wrapping Up
Talking a new language may be very difficult. Especially before you attain fluency. Fluent or native speakers speak very quickly and involve nuances, different contexts, and dialects. It is easy to miss a word, and maybe even a whole conversation.
Most apps will only teach you the vocabulary and grammatical points. It is careful and methodical which is not how it is in real life. Conversation with real-life people helps you a lot.
This is why LanguaTalk believes in being taught by real-life people who are also great tutors. You get to learn a well-rounded language from the grammar to the nuanced conversations you will get from the locals. At an affordable rate.
Remember though, it takes time and LanguaTalk has structured it in a way that your tutor goes at your pace. Even if you still struggle with some words, you will be light years away from someone who only depends on Google Translate.
