Rosetta Stone Language Software
Review of Computer-based Instruction Utilizing Dynamic Immersion
Rosetta Stone 3.0 language-learning software provides a simple and effective methodology for people to learn foreign languages skills in the comfort of their homes.
Our new, globalized world has increased the needs of both travelers and businesspeople alike to communicate natively in foreign lands. Many people find learning a new language to be a difficult task, however Rosetta Stone 3.0 language-learning software makes it much easier.
Dynamic Immersion Method
With Rosetta Stone, rote memorization and translation are a thing of the past. The software teaches listening, reading writing and speaking skills by utilizing a technique Rosetta Stone calls Dynamic Immersion. This method utilizes pictures of objects, activities, and events to teach users the intricacies of new languages. Rosetta Stone, concisely defines the process as a method in which “... language meaning is derived by connecting words and grammar - intuitively - with images.”
The application’s interface is easy to use, with lesson titles and instructions in the user’s native language. Upon entering each lesson however, immersion in the new language is immediate and complete. Understanding the new language is accomplished through exposure to native speakers, with meaning derived from relevant content. Instant feedback allows users to monitor their own progress in real-time. Users are allowed to repeat lessons anytime, at their own discretion.
Listening, Reading, Speaking and Writing Skills
Reading and writing skills are developed by associating letters and words with their sounds and pictures depicting their meanings. To learn writing skills for languages with non-Latin alphabets, the interface displays an interactive keyboard, allowing for easy responses.
Listening skills are sharpened by concentrating on the words of native speakers and then selecting the best response from a group of several pictures. Users learn speech through guided pronunciation exercises and simulated dialogues. The built-in speech recognition technology is remarkably good, though not completely accurate. For an answer to be considered correct, users’ pronunciation will need accuracy of approximately 75-80%.
All lessons are scored and may be repeated anytime to insure complete comprehension and understanding of the presented concepts. After successful completion of each lesson group, the program schedules “Adaptive Recall” review sessions. These short tests, scheduled at “optimal intervals,” allow for the review and utilization of previously learned material, enabling efficient retention for future use.
Finally, after completing each unit of study, users are presented with a “Milestone” activity. This “final exam” presents an extended series of images depicting real-world situations. Users interact with the program, applying newly learned language concepts in a directed conversation.
Rosetta Stone Weaknesses
The Rosetta Stone method teaches users formal language constructs, but at times seems to fail teaching culturally relevant material and everyday slang. Therefore, in real-life situations, travelers may not use “currently appropriate” words when talking with a native speaker (but will still be understood).
Another drawback can be found in the lessons themselves, where the meaning of displayed images is not always clear. Some users may benefit from having another language resource such as a book or online translator available to help insure proper understanding of the material.
Conclusions
To get the most out of Rosetta Stone, users must be willing to invest some time. At first, learning may seem slow, but the software is customizable, and users will be surprised at how quickly they are able to understand basic written text and conversations.
This product is not appropriate for travelers who only want or need to learn a handful of words and phrases. Rosetta Stone is more than that, preparing people to participate in basic to intermediate-level conversations as well as reading a variety of signs, menus, magazines and newspapers.
For those needing to gain true proficiency in a language, it would be best to use Rosetta Stone in combination with other traditional learning products and techniques.
Note: Article based upon usage of Russian-language course, Levels 1-3
