Where to get unbiased Spanish language software recomendations

Question

I'd like to get some unbiased recommendations for learning Spanish - I purchased Rosetta Stone and tried the immersion method; it's definitely not for me. I am currently working with the Fluenz software but think it's lacking in explanations such as verb conjugation...I need to know WHY for the information to stick in my head So far, the lessons on this web site have been the most beneficial but with a limited number of levels, I would like to know where to go next!

I also supplement my Spanish learning by occasionally viewing video from the BBC's Mundo site to get a feel for the language and attempt to pick out words I know.

Can anyone give me their ideas on the best web site, software or methods for learning Spanish?

Thanks in advance Trent

Answer 1

There is no single method for everyone, and I believe that personal attitude is more important than the method itself.

While not everyone will agree with this guy, you might want to check what he has to say: http://toshuo.com/2008/steve-kaufmanns-spontaneous-10-language-demonstration/

Read "Polyglot" by Kato Lomb; it is very enlightening.

This forum has a lot of polyglots. Find out how they did learn so many languages.

In any case, you have to work hard to learn a language, but the more you enjoy it, the less effort it is. I know several people whose Spanish is shockingly good, and they learnt it by immersing themselves into the language, and without grammar or courses; just by watching TV, reading newspapers...

I like how he changes expressions and manerisms with language - coolclay, Jul 3, 2011

Answer 2

For learning structure, I found the Michel Thomas Method really good. He covers Spanish Foundation, Advanced, Vocabulary and Language Builder. In all there is about 20 cd's. He explains things without referring to grammatical terms too much and explains origins and meanings behind some of the verbs.

I purchased the Michel Thomas vocabulary builder set, the two words that they repeat the most is Michel Thomas... LOL! :) - EL_MAG0, Jul 3, 2011

lol to be honest that is the worst out of the whole set. It was recorded after Michel had died and the lady in it (Rose Lee Hayden) starts to grate on your after a while! - billygoat, Jul 3, 2011

I can see how his course might help allot of people..just be aware that his spanish accent is very bad - coolclay, Jul 3, 2011

Answer 3

No method is unbiased.

Any of the basic sapanish courses would be good for a beginner. Listen to as much as you can.

Some beginner courses would be

Spanish in 10 minutes a day, Pimslerur, Drivetime spanish, Berlitz basic spanish, spanish in your car, Spanish a visual passport

You can also try vocabulearn

Our public library has a variety of learning materisals

I like having books as well as online and audio so I have purchases a few books as well.

I like the Instant immersion spanish workbook and spanish in 10 minutes a day.

I wish there was a shortcut or some magical computer program but I don't know of one. For me, time and effort seems to be the key.

Answer 4

I don't think there is one "best" language software or audio course. I think the key is finding what works for you and keeps you interested in learning more. I used Rosetta Stone to build a foundation, and supplemented it with the lessons on this site and here. I also recommend the "Practice Makes Perfect" workbooks for their clear explanations of grammatical concepts and good exercises.

Yes, what I like about practice makes perfect is they have answeres in the back so you can check to see if you answered correctly. - Hungerford, Jul 3, 2011

Answer 5

Wow, thank you for all the detailed ideas, I will check each of them out; many of them I have not heard of before!

you are welcome - billygoat, Jul 4, 2011