As anyone had any success using the program Rosetta Stone to learn a second language?

Question

As anyone had any success using the program Rosetta Stone to learn a second language?

Answer 1

yeah, but get a dictionary too. it helps a lot!

Answer 2

Rosetta Stone is an excelent method but I wouldn't depend on it alone because it lacks a lot in grammar - I study German with it - and some other details that make me feel insecure.

But, for buying, that one is the best I know. Grammar, formulas, another examples, that you can get for free in the internet (try free online *language* course in the yahoo search). Rosetta dynamics is something you won't find anywhere.

Answer 3

I haven't used it much--just a bit since we had free access through our library. My kids and I learned a few words in Chinese just by playing around one session. We still remember some of them! I'd say it's pretty good. I know a few people use it and they all LOVE it and say it's the best.

Answer 4

The thing with Rosetta Stone, at least the lower and intermediate levels, is that they are very inductive...they are very conversational.  They don't give the "why" behind any of the information, they simply give it and expect you to figure the grammar and cultural stuff by osmosis.  

Young children learn by immersion, but older children often have a problem fully comprehending in this manner.  (Not always, but often.)  If your child needs to know the "why" and "how" behind what they learn, then no, this probably wouldn't be a good fit.  If they seem to intuitively pick it up, then it very well could work.

If you choose to do this curriculum (it's honestly not one of my faves, it's pretty low down on the list for the reasons stated above), check with your library system.  Many of them have it on disk or online for free.

Answer 5

I use the Rosetta Stone books for spanish, they make it a lot easier, I have learned quite a bit from it, it teaches you better then other books i've tried

Answer 6

Its great as long as  you add additional grammar study and even better if you can arrange for an occasional conversation with someone who speaks the language.  If it is not possible to have conversations with a person fluent in the language, then at least arrange to watch some videos and read some books in the language, of course start simple, cartoon videos and children's picture books, then progress.  

It's main weakness is in the grammar area, so using it along with a more text based program from your library would be good if you want to be able to read, write, and speak functionally.

There is one thing to remember when it comes to any language program, including the classes taught at your local High School; nothing will substitute for daily use of the language.  You can take the best class in the world, but if after the class is done you never speak the language again, you will lose it.  More important than what you use is how often and how consistently you use it.

I am in the process of learning French with Rosetta Stone.  It does work, and I am learning, but I have lots of opportunities to practice with my French Canadian husband and in-laws.