As the CEO and founder of a language training firm, I get asked a lot about language learning apps such as Babbel, Duolingo and Pimsleur. Some people assume that I must think these apps are a waste of time because they can’t come close to language classes with a real, live instructor. Others wonder if they need Fluency Corp’s services at all now that these apps are available.

My answer to such questions is usually along the lines of ,“It’s complicated.” I do believe language learning apps have value. But I don’t think they eliminate the need for learning a language with a human instructor. So let’s take a closer look at language learning apps and the pros and cons of using them.

Among Language Apps, Duolingo Is the King

High-tech options for language learning first started to gain attention back in the ‘90s with Rosetta Stone’s software. Rosetta Stone is still around, but the really big name in this space today is Duolingo. Founded in 2011, Duolingo is now the most-downloaded language learning app by far, and it’s generally regarded as the best free app of its kind.

However, other language learning apps do have their fans. PC Mag has a good list breaking down which apps are best for different kinds of language learners. CNN declares Rosetta Stone the best language learning lap overall, while Wired magazine prefers Babbel.

When to Use Language Learning Apps

In some situations, language learning apps are a great option. For example, if you’re simply curious about a particular language, but won’t be immersed in it anytime soon, it’s probably premature to invest in language classes with a human instructor. Language apps are a low-cost way to pursue your interest and figure out if you want to study a language further.

Language apps also work really well when you’re using them to supplement what you learn in more traditional language classes. I’ve done this myself. After completing 100-plus hours of Japanese conversation classes with a native instructor, I turned to Pimsleur to solidify vocabulary, phrases, syntax and more.

As I get conversation practice with my teacher, I can easily listen to Pimsleur in the car to repeat and learn useful phrases. That gives me more confidence when I practice with my teacher. Using an app works beautifully in tandem with my in-person language classes.

Where Language Apps Fall Short

While you can start exploring a new language using only apps, they should never be your sole tool for learning when you really need to get serious about gaining fluency. For example, an app can teach you some handy Spanish phrases to use during a one-week vacation to Mexico City.

But if you are relocating to Mexico City to work in your company’s office there, an app alone cannot get you ready to use Spanish every day in every aspect of your life and work.

Why is this the case? I believe the key to learning a new language is conversation. In fact, I built my whole business around this idea. No matter how diligently you use an app, it’s just not enough to prepare you to use your new language in work meetings, at the doctor’s office or at a conference with your kid’s teacher.

If you are moving to a new country for work, or even collaborating virtually with colleagues who speak another language, you should work in person or online with a live instructor who’s a native speaker of the language you want to acquire. Then, as I did, use an app to learn and repeat more vocabulary and useful phrases.

I also want to add a special note here to HR professionals who help coordinate global relocations: Your employees need more than a language app if you’re sending them to a new country. Yes, language classes are more expensive than apps. But do you know what’s even more expensive? The failed relocations that are more likely to occur when your people don’t have the language fluency they need.

See How Fluency Corp Can Help

If you’re ready to go in-depth with learning a new language, or you need to purchase language training for employees at your organization, we’d love to talk with you about how Fluency Corp can help. We offer classes around the world, for employees at all levels, as well as online classes.

To learn more, you can watch video testimonials, see some of the major companies we’ve worked with, and read about how our classes work. We’re also happy to answer your questions directly. Just get in touch.