Flex Language Muscles with LMS Online Courses

By William Drew

According to a report by the U.S. Department of Education, only 8.6 out of every 100 college credits achieved by U.S. students are for foreign language acquisition, despite the growing use of LMS online language programs. Contrast this figure to the 56% of Europeans at ease with at least one other language, according to a recent Eurobarometer survey. It's a sad but true stereotype about Americans--most of us are more or less limited to our mastery of English.

The U.S. is one of the most materially privileged countries across the globe, with access to the best and newest technology. Taking that into consideration, it's baffling that more Americans aren't challenging themselves to acquire a second language, taking advantage of the spectrum of language resources such as face-to-face and online tutors, and university and LMS online language courses.

It's true that LMS online language courses are unique. Unlike other topics which are great left on the page, language material needs to be practiced out loud; therefore, depending on online courseware alone may not be an effective method.

The repetition of words and phrases is a requisite to any language course. And although an online course can ask learners to listen to and repeat sounds and phrases, without anyone there to listen, a student may not be pronouncing correctly. Therefore, a blended learning environment works best for language acquisition. The best e-learning, after all, is most effective when coupled with in-person teaching.

When well-maintained, an LMS online language course is effective. Particularly for high schools, LMS online language courses help solve many problems facing schools today, such as: scant language course offerings, language teacher shortages, a lack of interest in traditional language acquisition, the rise in home-schooling and lack of AP classes in some areas, and the lack of physical space and funding.

Additionally, LMS online language courses can help foster the confidence of shy students when interaction with other students is online and required. Online tools like LMSs, VoIP providers, instant messaging, screen and audio recordings, and podcasts provide endless opportunities for applying and sharpening language knowledge.

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