The Limitations of Language Apps

The Missing Ingredient: Human Connection

Before becoming a teacher and reflecting on effective learning strategies, I was a language app enthusiast.

I tried several apps including Babbel, Duolingo, Mondly, and Busuu.

Despite multiple attempts with each one, none of them stayed on my phone for long.

Why? (They lack the human element)

While language apps promise convenient learning anytime and anywhere, they're missing something essential for learners like me: tangible human presence. 

For many learners, including myself, this human connection is vital for maintaining motivation and making real progress. I need strong motivation to truly engage with learning.​

Motivation Through Personal Relationships

1. Student Progress:  As a teacher, I'm driven by seeing my students enhance their lives through improved language skills. Simply receiving payment without witnessing their growth would feel hollow. What saddens me most isn't people declining my services, but those who pay and then disappear.

2. Cultural Connections: While my interest in languages comes from wanting to connect with native speakers, this goal alone isn't concrete enough to motivate me to begin studying.

3. Meaningful Interactions: Deep conversations in a target language can fuel passion for learning.

The Role of a Teacher in Language Acquisition

Yes, even as a teacher, I need a teacher.

The connection I form with at least one instructor during my learning journey is essential for maintaining accountability and consistency. Even as a language teacher myself, having my own instructor is crucial for:

• Accountability 
• Consistency in effort 
• Emotional connection and admiration 

I fell in love with French first, then Flemish Dutch. This was entirely due to meaningful connections with real people.

But why in this order? 

Because my Dutch conversations, though fewer, were more meaningful—quality over quantity. 

Why Language Apps Fall Short

Despite their advantages, language learning apps lack:

1. Personal accountability - I miss having human connections, especially a teacher who serves as both an accountability partner and learning companion.

2. Emotional connection - Once I establish a human connection, I become self-motivated. I don't need daily reminders to practice. For me, genuine respect and admiration for my teacher is essential. I struggle to maintain progress without being accountable to someone I genuinely respect. Having friends or acquaintances who speak the language naturally strengthens this motivation.

3. Tailored feedback and guidance

Combining App Flexibility with Human Touch

This has become my guiding principle in all my professional endeavors.

If I identify something I would have greatly valued but never received, I'm determined to provide that missing element for others.

My teaching philosophy aims to bridge this gap by:

• Offering the flexibility of language apps 
• Providing the crucial human connection 
• Tailoring lessons to individual needs and interests
  

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