Has anyone ever usedd the Rosseta Stone learning program?

Question

Helps you undrstand and comprehend better what you are reading.

Answer 1

I haven't, though I've reviewed it.  It is good for gaining a vocabulary base to learn with.  I chose not to use it because although it does afford a quick surface understanding of what you are reading, it is extremely light on grammar and the "why" behind the language.  Both are necessary for truly learning a foreign language past an upper elementary (or possibly jr. high) level.

Answer 2

It's okay, but also really confusing. It has no grammar explanations and what it does have in the homeschool version's study guide is all in technical grammar terms, which I don't understand.

It would be really nice to have a simple English explanation of German grammar. Simple English, not simple explanation of German grammar...the latter is impossible -_____-.

Answer 3

I've used it and found it effective at the basic level for general vocabulary building.  It's not good for advanced level learning but is excellent at the introductory level.  Reading comprehension requires a significant vocabulary - increase your vocab and you will automatically read better.

If you want to read better, the concept of specificity of training tells us that you must simply practice reading.  Newspapers are available online in almost any language you can imagine.  Google News is also available in many languages.

I found, when working up my German, that reading fairy tales helped a lot.  The advantage is that you probably already know the stories so the comprehension is high - it's all about recognition.

Of course, the very best way to learn any language at a functional level is immersion.  If you can find a place to immerse in the language, your skills will improve very rapidly.

Answer 4

My son has been / is using it for Spanish I...

It is OK but I wouldn't rave about it.  We are searching for alternatives for next year Spanish II (and possibly a little remedial work with Spanish I).

Non-computer based options, I think will be better.

Answer 5

I'm using one right now, I took spanish back in high school but didn't really pay attention, so it's good learning it again.  It's good on some levels but sometimes you don't know what they're saying becuase there's no translation.  You can get the cheaper software at http://www.ioffer.com  I got mine for $75 for both french and spanish.  also you can go to http://www.livemocha.com for free lessons.

Answer 6

My big sisters family is using it to learn German. They thought it would be fun since our little sis and her husband were stationed in Germany. We also have a German Aunt and she loves to hear her kids speak her native tounge. They love it.