The Internet is rich in free language-learning resources. Knowledge of a foreign language can enhance your job prospects. But that’s not the only reason why we should learn languages.
Another is to understand other cultures and peoples. By taking the time to learn about another culture, we are promoting peace. Learning languages can also enhance your creativity and help you learn other subjects. So in this blog post we will present with you 20 language-learning resources.
If you’re interested in learning how to learn languages with apps or by watching movies, then make sure to read our other related blog posts.
[How to Learn a New Language With Movies & Best Language Learning Apps for 2024]
So here are 2O resources for those wishing to learn a new language.
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1. Duolingo
Duolingo is a widely-used language learning platform that gamifies the learning process. Its interactive lessons cover vocabulary, grammar, and sentence structure, making it an engaging resource for learners. With a focus on short, daily sessions, Duolingo adapts to individual progress, ensuring a personalized learning experience. Its vibrant community and mobile app make language learning accessible and enjoyable, appealing to beginners and those looking to reinforce their language skills alike.
2. Memrise
Memrise stands out for its innovative approach to language learning, incorporating mnemonic techniques and multimedia elements. The platform aims to make vocabulary acquisition memorable and enjoyable through a variety of memory aids. Users engage with video clips, images, and audio, enhancing their understanding and retention of words and phrases. Memrise’s user-friendly interface and emphasis on real-world context contribute to an effective and entertaining language learning experience.
3. BBC Languages
BBC Languages provides a comprehensive language learning experience with free courses, audio resources, videos, games, and quizzes. Tailored for practical, real-world usage, the platform covers a range of languages, offering users a diverse and interactive way to learn. BBC Languages combines quality content with an engaging format, making language acquisition enjoyable and effective. The inclusion of cultural insights adds depth to the learning process.
4. Open Culture
Open Culture is a treasure trove of free language learning resources. From textbooks to online courses and videos, it aggregates high-quality content from universities worldwide. The platform covers various languages and proficiency levels, providing learners with a flexible and diverse range of study materials. Open Culture’s commitment to open access education makes it an invaluable resource for self-directed learners seeking a wealth of materials to enhance their language skills.
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5. Busuu
Busuu combines self-paced language lessons with a social learning platform, allowing users to practice with native speakers. The platform’s interactive lessons cover vocabulary, grammar, and practical conversation skills. Their unique feature is the ability to receive feedback from native speakers, enhancing language proficiency through real-world interactions. Busuu is an effective tool for language learners seeking a holistic and engaging approach to mastering a new language.
6. Anki
Anki is an intelligent flashcard app designed for efficient vocabulary memorization using spaced repetition. Users create decks of flashcards, and Anki optimizes the review schedule based on individual performance. This approach ensures that learners focus on challenging words and phrases, making the memorization process more effective. Anki’s versatility extends beyond language learning, making it a powerful tool for anyone looking to memorize information systematically and retain it in the long term.
7. Babbel
Babbel offers practical language learning through short, interactive lessons that cover grammar, vocabulary, and pronunciation. Tailored to beginners and intermediate learners, the platform emphasizes real-life conversations, making it a valuable resource for those looking to acquire functional language skills. Babbel’s structured lessons, combined with speech recognition technology, provide learners with immediate feedback, enhancing pronunciation and overall language proficiency.
8. MIT OpenCourseWare – Foreign Language and Literature
MIT OpenCourseWare provides free online language courses, particularly in foreign language and literature. Taught by experienced professors, these courses cover a wide range of languages and delve into linguistic and cultural aspects. The courses are designed to offer a comprehensive understanding of the chosen language, incorporating literature and cultural context. Learners benefit from MIT’s academic rigor and gain access to high-quality language education that combines theoretical knowledge with practical communication skills.
9. FluentU
FluentU revolutionizes language learning by using real-world videos, such as music videos and movie trailers, to teach languages in context. Interactive subtitles, vocabulary lists, and quizzes are integrated into videos, creating an immersive learning experience. FluentU exposes learners to authentic language use, helping them grasp nuances and improve listening skills. FluentU is a dynamic resource for learners who want to go beyond traditional exercises and learn languages through cultural immersion.
10. Mango Languages
Mango Languages, accessible through many public libraries, offers a variety of language courses with a focus on practical conversation skills. The platform employs a conversational approach, guiding learners through real-life situations and scenarios. With an emphasis on cultural understanding, Mango Languages provides learners with insights into language use within different contexts. The platform’s accessibility through libraries makes it a convenient and cost-effective option for individuals seeking a well-rounded language learning experience with a library card.
11. Livemocha (now part of Rosetta Stone)
Livemocha, now part of Rosetta Stone, was known for its community-based language learning approach. Users could learn from lessons, practice exercises, and receive feedback from a global community of learners and native speakers. Livemocha’s emphasis on peer review and interaction made it a social and engaging platform for language learners. As it transitions to become part of Rosetta Stone, it brings its collaborative spirit to a platform known for its expertise in language education.
12. Clozemaster
Clozemaster stands out as a language learning platform that focuses on extensive exposure to vocabulary in context. Users learn through thousands of sentences in multiple languages, reinforcing vocabulary and sentence structure. The platform’s game-like format makes learning enjoyable, and its emphasis on context-rich sentences aids in understanding usage nuances. Whether aiming to expand vocabulary or improve sentence construction, Clozemaster provides an effective and entertaining way to enhance language skills through targeted exposure to diverse language contexts.
13. Tandem
Tandem connects language learners with native speakers around the world, facilitating language exchange through text, voice, and video chats. The platform pairs users based on their language learning goals and interests, fostering a collaborative learning environment. Tandem’s emphasis on real-time communication provides learners with practical language use, helping them build conversational skills and cultural understanding. With a diverse community and user-friendly interface, Tandem offers a social and interactive approach to language learning that extends beyond traditional lessons.
14. Lingodeer
Lingodeer offers interactive language lessons with a focus on grammar, vocabulary, and sentence structure. Its game-like format engages learners through challenges, quizzes, and exercises that progressively build language skills. Lingodeer’s content is designed to be immersive and memorable, catering to various learning styles. Users benefit from a well-structured curriculum that covers essential language components. Lingodeer’s user-friendly design and visually appealing lessons make it a valuable resource for those seeking a comprehensive and enjoyable language learning experience.
15. Internet Polyglot
Internet Polyglot takes a unique approach to language learning by associating words with images in a game-like environment. Users learn and reinforce vocabulary through repetition, with a focus on making learning enjoyable. The platform’s use of visual associations enhances memory retention, making it an effective tool for vocabulary acquisition. Internet Polyglot’s user-friendly interface and emphasis on gamification make it particularly appealing to learners who appreciate a creative and interactive approach to language study.
16. Foreign Services Institute (FSI) Language Courses
The Foreign Services Institute (FSI) Language Courses offer free language resources developed by the U.S. government for diplomats. Covering a broad spectrum of languages, these courses provide in-depth instruction, focusing on linguistic and cultural aspects. The courses are designed for serious learners who seek a comprehensive understanding of a language, encompassing both written and spoken components. With a commitment to high-quality education, FSI Language Courses are valuable for individuals aiming to achieve a high level of proficiency in their chosen language.
17. Digital Dialects
Digital Dialects provides free-to-play language games designed to reinforce vocabulary and language skills in an entertaining way. With a focus on interactive learning, the platform offers games that cover essential language components, such as numbers, phrases, and everyday expressions. Digital Dialects’ approach combines education with enjoyment, making it suitable for both beginners and those looking to reinforce their language proficiency. The platform’s game-based format encourages repeated engagement, helping learners internalize language concepts in a memorable manner, an effective supplement to traditional language learning methods.
18. LingQ
LingQ distinguishes itself by emphasizing extensive reading to improve language skills. Users learn from content they find interesting, including articles, books, and podcasts. LingQ’s approach focuses on acquiring vocabulary through exposure to diverse contexts, promoting language comprehension and retention. The platform’s customizable lessons allow users to tailor their learning experience to their interests. With a vast library of content in multiple languages, LingQ caters to learners seeking a flexible and personalized path to language proficiency through extensive reading.
19. Free Language
Free Language serves as an aggregator of diverse language learning resources, offering free courses, textbooks, and videos from various sources on the web. The platform’s curated collection spans multiple languages and proficiency levels, making it a valuable hub for learners seeking a variety of materials. Free Language’s user-friendly interface simplifies the discovery of resources, providing a centralized space for individuals to explore and access free language learning materials conveniently. Whether a beginner or an advanced learner, Free Language facilitates self-directed language study with its extensive and accessible collection.
20. YouTube
Learn a Language with YouTube compiles a list of YouTube channels that offer language lessons, cultural insights, and authentic language use in different contexts. The curated selection covers various languages and learning styles, providing learners with a diverse range of resources. The recommended channels offer engaging and accessible content. Learn a Language with YouTube serves as a gateway to the wealth of language learning material available on YouTube, connecting learners with valuable resources for expanding their language skills through multimedia content.
